In a line organization, what type of authority is typically exercised?

In a line organization, authority is characterized as definite and absolute. This means that authority flows in a clear, vertical hierarchy where each level of management has specific roles and responsibilities, and decision-making is concentrated at the top levels of the organization. In this structure, supervisors have the power to make final decisions and give orders, which are expected to be followed without debate. This clarity helps maintain a strong chain of command, ensuring that each employee knows who to report to and who has the authority to make decisions. This also enables swift action and accountability, as each person’s role and authority are well defined within the organization.

The other types of authority mentioned do not apply to the line organization model. Shared authority typically implies that power and responsibility are distributed among various levels or groups, which is more characteristic of a team or collaborative structure. Dispersed authority indicates a more decentralized approach to decision-making, which contrasts with the centralization seen in line organizations. Delegated authority refers to the assignment of decision-making power to subordinates, which can exist in different structures but does not define the absolute nature of authority found in a line organization.