Difference Between Delegation of Authority and Decentralisation

Delegation of Authority differs from Decentralisation in the following ways :-

1. Meaning

Delegation of authority means giving work to others and giving them the authority to do this work. Delegate means to hand over or give.

In Decentralisation, the authority is distributed to all the levels of management.

2. Cause and Effect

Delegation is the cause of decentralisation.

Decentralisation is the effect (i.e. a result) of delegation.

3. How it takes place?

Delegation takes place from superior to subordinate.

Decentralisation take place from the top level management to the different departments.

4. Narrow and Wide

Delegation is a narrow term because it only involves individuals.

Decentralisation is wide because it involves all the department of the organisation.

5. Control

In delegation the final control lies with the superior. That is, in delegation the superior keeps complete control.

In decentralisation the controlling is done by the head of departments. The top level management keeps minimum control.

6. Responsibility

In delegation, the ultimate responsibility lies with the superior.

In decentralisation, the ultimate responsibility lies with the head of department (HOD).

7. Essential and Optional

Delegation is very essential for getting the work done through others. Therefore, it is used by all organisations.

Decentralisation is optional. Therefore, it is not used by all organisations. It is only used by large organisations.

8. Acceptance

Delegation may be refused by subordinates.

Decentralisation is mostly welcomed by heads of department.

9. Withdrawal of Authority

After delegation, it is very easy to withdraw (take back) the authority from the subordinate.

After decentralisation, it is very difficult to withdraw the authority from the department

10. Technique and Philosophy

Delegation is a technique of getting things done.

Decentralisation is a philosophy of management.