Chain Of Command Essay

22) Small-business owners are afforded the rare opportunity to operate with a vast degree of independence. In addition, small-business owners have extensive discretionary power in relation to decision-making and in defining the company’s objectives. These individuals have the freedom to shift the focus of their organization and are not obligated to consult with upper-management in order to receive authorization to take action. Essentially, the law may be the exclusive force of control these individuals are held subject to. On the other hand, public administration may be hierarchy-oriented; thus, it can drastically differ in terms of structure and design. Starling (2011) “It is based on the scalar principle, which states that authority and responsibility should flow in a direct line vertically from the highest level of the organization to the lowest level” (p. 300). In other words, the public sector may utilize a top-down approach to transmit information throughout …show more content…
Consequently, neglecting to follow the chain of command is strongly contested (Starling, 2011, p. 300). Ultimately, some individuals may resist such a strict organizational structure due to the lack autonomy it grants and the barrier it creates between them and department heads. However, the implementation of a chain of command can eliminate ambiguity regarding who employees are mandated to report to and unethical conduct that may result from such ambiguity can be avoided. For example, the chain of command is used in law enforcement and it is deeply embedded in the culture. Law enforcement officers are exposed to high-risk situations and have been assigned the enormous responsibility of overseeing the public. Thus, it is practical for police sergeants to retain substantial control over their patrol officers to minimize the possibility for breaches to