What term describes the process of delegating decision-making authority to lower levels within an organization?

The term that describes the process of delegating decision-making authority to lower levels within an organization is empowerment. Empowerment involves granting employees at various levels the authority to make decisions and take actions that affect their work and the organization as a whole. This process encourages individuals to take ownership of their roles, fosters a sense of accountability, and enhances job satisfaction by allowing for greater autonomy.

When employees are empowered, they are more likely to contribute innovative ideas and solutions, as they feel their input is valued. This cultural shift can lead to improved overall performance and responsiveness within the organization.

While delegation refers to the assignment of responsibility and authority from one individual to another, empowerment specifically emphasizes enabling individuals at all levels to take initiative and make decisions. Authority pertains to the legal rights or power to make decisions, but it does not inherently include the proactive element of engaging individuals in the decision-making process. Collaboration focuses on teamwork and cooperation rather than the distribution of decision-making power.