Directorate of distance education master of business administration

Line Relationship 
 
A line manager has a clearly defined role to play in the organization 
which requires understanding of the nature of line authority.  In the 
organizing process, activities are assigned to the individuals making them 
responsible for the proper performance of these activities.  Authority is 
delegated to these individuals to perform the activities.  These individuals, 
in turn, assign some of the activities to persons working below them in 
the hierarchy. 
Line Authority – Features 
1.  
Chain of command  
 
A command relationship exists between each superior and 
subordinate.  Line authority is the heart of this relationship because it 
entitles a superior to direct the work of his subordinate. 
2.  
Chain of communication 
 
Line authority is the channel of communication between 
members of the organization.  Communication up and down in the 
organization flows through the line relationship.  In any organization 
line of communication should be established. There should be a system 
where everyone reports and also get reported.  Such a line is maintained 
through line of command.