The most fundamental authority in an organization, consisting of the right to make decisions and to give orders concerning the production-, sales-, or finance-related behavior of subordinates, is ________.
A) functional authority
B) staff authority
C) traditional authority
D) line authority
E) informal authority

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Line authority is the most fundamental authority in an organization, which includes the right to make decisions and give orders regarding the production, sales, or finance behavior of subordinates. It follows a vertical chain of command where each position is accountable to the one directly above it. Functional authority refers to authority over a specific function or task, staff authority supports line authority, traditional authority is based on custom or historical precedent, and informal authority arises from personal qualities or characteristics of an individual. None of the other choices describe the most fundamental authority in an organization.

The Most Fundamental Authority in an Organization, Consisting of the Right