Q.Explain the principle of Scalar Chain and Gang Plank. (using the diagram)
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Start your 14-day free trial to unlock the full solution →Scalar chain = the formal line of authority from top to bottom through which communication must pass in sequence; Gang plank = a permitted direct shortcut between two same-level employees to save time in urgent cases, with superiors kept informed.
In Fayol's principles (Kerala Plus Two Principles of Management):
Scalar Chain — There should be a clear chain of authority linking all managers from the highest rank to the lowest. Every communication should flow through this chain, moving up and down step by step so that authority and communication are orderly and no level is bypassed. For example, if positions run A (top) → B, C, D on one side and A → L, M, N on the other, a message from D intended for N would normally travel D → C → B → A → L → M → N.
Gang Plank — Following the full chain can be slow in an emergency. Fayol therefore allowed a gang plank, a shortcut by which two persons at the same level of the hierarchy (say F and P) can communicate directly with each other without routing the message all the way up to the common superior and back down. The condition is that both their immediate superiors are informed of the direct contact. This preserves the discipline of the scalar chain while adding speed and flexibility.
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