Principle of Unity of Command

The principle of unity of command is violated if a subordinate is asked to receive orders from two or more superiors. This principle states that each employee should receive orders and instructions from only one manager. This principle is essential for maintaining order and discipline in an organization. Violating the principle of unity of command can lead to confusion, conflicts, and inefficiency in an organization.

Explanation

The principle of unity of command is based on the assumption that an employee cannot serve two masters at the same time. If an employee receives conflicting orders from two or more superiors, he or she may become confused and unsure about what to do. This can lead to delays, mistakes, and conflicts between the superiors.

Furthermore, if an employee is asked to receive orders from two or more superiors, he or she may prioritize one over the other. This can lead to resentment and conflicts between the superiors, and it can also affect the employee's job performance. For example, if an employee receives conflicting orders from two managers, he or she may prioritize the orders of the manager who is more senior or who has more power. This can lead to neglect of the other manager's orders, which can affect the overall performance of the organization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, violating the principle of unity of command can have serious consequences for an organization. It can lead to confusion, conflicts, and inefficiency, and it can also affect the morale and job performance of the employees. Therefore, it is essential for managers to ensure that each employee receives orders and instructions from only one manager. This can help to maintain order and discipline in the organization and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals.