Chain of Command - GCSE Business Definition

What is the chain of command?

In GCSE Business, the chain of command is the formal line of authority that flows downward from top management to lower-level employees. 

The chain of command in an organisational structure

The chain of command defines who reports to whom and who is responsible for making decisions. It helps to establish a clear communication channel and maintain accountability within the organisation.

In tall organisational structures, the chain of command is very long, with many levels of hierarchy through which authority and communication must pass. In flat organisational structures, the chain of command is short, with authority and communication passing through few levels of hierarchy.