Line and staff

Need to know

What you need to know

• Line roles form the direct chain of command and are focused on core business objectives.
• Line managers have direct authority to give orders to subordinates.
• Staff roles provide specialist advice and support services to line departments.
• Staff roles have advisory authority (influence) but not direct command authority over line employees.

Explanation

Line and staff

1. Line roles form the direct chain of command and are focused on core business objectives.
2. Line managers have direct authority to give orders to subordinates.
3. Staff roles provide specialist advice and support services to line departments.
4. Staff roles have advisory authority (influence) but not direct command authority over line employees.