What is the chain of command?

• A. A matrix structure
• B. The official hierarchy of authority that dictates who is in charge of whom and whose permission must be asked.
• C. A circle of informal influence
• D. A plan for resource allocation

Answer: (B)

The chain of command is the formal authorization path within an organization. It is the official hierarchy of authority that dictates who is in charge of whom and whose permission must be asked before decisions or actions are taken. This structure creates clear lines of accountability, ensures orders flow from the top down, and helps prevent conflicting directives. It also makes escalation paths clear when issues arise and supports consistent policy enforcement. Other ideas describe different things: a matrix structure involves reporting across functional areas rather than a single vertical line of authority; a circle of informal influence refers to unofficial networks that can affect decisions but don’t carry formal power; a plan for resource allocation focuses on distributing resources, not the authority to approve actions.