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Distinguish between chain of command and unity of command.

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Question added by VENKITARAMAN KRISHNA MOORTHY VRINDAVAN , Project Execution Manager & Accounts Manager , ALI INTERNATIONAL TRADING EST.
Date Posted: 2014/09/27
Bassam AL - Mujamami
by Bassam AL - Mujamami , مدير الموارد البشرية والشئون الإدارية , Bin Mariee Group

The Difference Between Chain of Command and Unity of Command Chain of command and unity of command are often used to refer to military command structures, but they are also applicable to modern business strategies. Within the corporate environment, these terms refer to the overall business structure, containing either a rigid hierarchy of bosses or a single manager who oversees all the business functions of a company. These command structures are different, but each provides its own unique advantages. Chain of Command A chain of command is a command hierarchy with multiple levels of command responsibility. This can be different departments in a company, where each department is answerable to those higher in the chain, and where those higher-ups are answerable to bosses who are even higher in the company. Each level of command is answerable to others from higher tiers of command. The chain of command structure allows for simple delegation of responsibilities to subordinates who are aware of their role in the command structure. Unity of Command Unity of command is a managerial technique that is built around a single individual in command, with any number of subordinates under her command. This is often the command structure used in small businesses, wherein one owner/manager has full control over every managerial responsibility. Unity of command provides a singular vision with a clear command structure, such as that of the single owner who determines the vision for the company. Unity of command requires consistent micromanagement by the head of the command structure, because the head of the organization has no one under her command to whom she delegates leadership responsibilities. Command Fortitude The chain of command structure offers its own advantages, such as increased command fortitude. The hierarchical structure ensures that business continues, regardless of interruptions in the chain of command such as occur when people quit their jobs, are fired or are sick and unable to work. The basic functions of the hierarchy are protected, and subordinates know to whom, within the hierarchy as it stands at any given moment, to turn for guidance. Decision-Making Speed The unity of command structure offers a unique speed advantage for decision-making. The head of the organization has the unilateral ability to make decisions, without consultation or discussion with others, thus speeding up the decision-making process. For instance, within a single owner/manager business environment, the single owner is not responsible to communicate or discuss changes of policy to or with anyone else, providing flexibility of management and an increased ability to adjust and conform to market demands, whether by changing prices as needed or staging sales to compete with another business nearby.

Divyesh Patel
by Divyesh Patel , Assistant Professional Officer- Treasury , City Of Cape Town

Unity of command is a managerial technique that is built around a single individual in command, with any number of subordinates under her command.

 

A chain of command is a command hierarchy with multiple levels of command responsibility.

 

Vanila Edison
by Vanila Edison , Intern , Fujairah Free Zone Authority

Chain of command involves a large procedure where there are different levels to be overcome for implementing the command whereas unity of command is where all individuals stick to one command and shared opinion is considered. 

 

Chain of command and unity of command are good and bad in terms of their implementation depending on different organizational ranges.

حسام السداتى
by حسام السداتى , مدير تسويق , أكاديمية السادات للعلوم الإدارية

Chain of command

Reflects the organizational structure and sequence Racharkh and authorities included

Unity of command

Reflect the degree of influence of the commander in subordinates

Saiful Islam Hiron
by Saiful Islam Hiron , Site HR Manager , Handicap International

Chain of command: Control power from top to bottom.

Unity of Command: Consultative direction as team approach.

souha safir
by souha safir , إدارية , قطاع التربية

AGREE WITH MR HIRON

Irina Chepel
by Irina Chepel , Personal trainer , Freelancer

"Unity of command" simply means that each person in an incident command structure reports to a single superior. The number of such direct-reports is governed by the "span of control." "Chain of command" refers to the formal communications and authority from top to bottom and bottom to top within the organization, where you can ONLY get instructions/orders from your supervisor and you, in turn, only have direct authority over people who report to you directly. 

Ahmed Mohamed Ayesh Sarkhi
by Ahmed Mohamed Ayesh Sarkhi , Shared Services Supervisor , Saudi Musheera Co. Ltd.

agree with Bassam Mujammami  

 

Necessary for them

For success

 

Leadership and Management

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