'Authority' and 'Responsibility' are two important elements in the process of delegation of authority." Explain the two.

Delegation is the entrustment of responsibility and authority to another and the creation of accountability for the performance. The essential elements of delegation are:

(a) Authority:

(i) It refers to the right of an individual to command her/his subordinates and to take action within the scope of her/his position.

(ii) It arises from the established scalar chain which links the various job positions and levels of an organisation.

(iii) Authority flows from top to bottom.

(b) Responsibility:

(i) It is the obligation of a subordinate to properly perform the assigned duty.

(ii) It arises from a superior-subordinate relationship.

(iii) It flows upwards.

(c) Accountability:

(i) It implies being answerable for the final outcome.

(ii) It cannot be delegated.

(iii) It flows upwards.