Question

Which concept, championed by Mooney and Reiley, emphasizes that staff management provides advice rather than direct authority?

• A. Scalar Process
• B. Functional Differentiation
• C. Line and Staff
• D. Coordination

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Line and Staff

Line and Staff Concept in Administration

• The Line and Staff concept is a crucial principle in organizational management, distinguishing between direct authority and advisory roles.
• This concept was notably discussed and developed by prominent thinkers like Mooney and Reiley.
• Line authority refers to the direct chain of command where supervisors direct their subordinates. Decisions are made and implemented along this line.
• Staff, on the other hand, represents advisory bodies or individuals who provide specialized expertise, research, and recommendations to the line managers.
• Staff personnel do not have the power to command or enforce decisions directly; their influence comes from their knowledge and advice.
• The primary function of the staff is to assist and advise the line officers, enabling them to make better decisions and operate more efficiently.
• Examples of staff functions include legal counsel, human resources, research and development, and public relations departments within an organization.
• The effective integration of line and staff functions is vital for the smooth functioning and strategic success of complex organizations.