How is the principle of ‘Unity of Command’ useful to management? Explain briefly.

The principle of ‘Unity of Command’ states that any person should be answerable to just one boss. If an individual receives command from two or more people then, this principle is violated. According to Fayol, this principle plays an important role in management. If this principle is violated then, it leads to confusion in the mind of the employee which leads to instability and disturbance. For example, suppose A (sales manager) gives B a task that has to be completed in 5 days. On the other hand, C (finance manager) asks B to complete the same task in 3 days. This will lead to confusion in terms of targets.

Principle of Unity of Command implies that each and every subordinate should have one and only one boss. Orders and instructions should come from only one head. This helps the working of any organisation in the following manner 

(i) Authority responsibility relationship is clearly defined. 

(ii) Subordinates are known for whom they are accountable. 

(iii) Discipline and order is maintained.

Principle of ‘Unity of Command’ implies that each and every subordinate should have one and only one boss. Orders and instructions should come from only one head. 

This helps the working of any organisation in the following manner

• Authority responsibility relationship is clearly defined. 
• Subordinates know to whom they are accountable. 
• Discipline and order are maintained.