The formal lines of authority from highest to lowest ranks are known as scalar chain of an organisation, which consists of superiors and subordinates. In the words of Fayol, “Organisations should have a chain of authority and communication that runs from top to bottom and should be followed by managers and the subordinates.”
For example, there is one head ‘A’ in an organisation who has two lines of authority under him. One line consists of B-C-D-E-F. Another line of authority under ‘A’ consists of L-MN-O- P. If ‘E’ has to communicate with ‘O’ who is at the same level of authority then he has to traverse the route E-D-C-B-A-L-M-N-O. This is owing to the principle of scalar chain which is being followed in this situation. Fayol suggests that this chain should not be violated in the normal course of formal communication. However, in case of an emergency, ‘E’ can directly contact ‘O’ through ‘Gang Plank’ as illustrated in the figure given below. This is a shorter route and it has been provided in order to prevent any delay in communication.
In practice also, it is observed that an employee cannot contact the CEO of the company directly. In order to do so, he has to inform all the formal levels, i.e., foreman, superintendent, manager, director etc about it. Anyway, in an emergency, it may be possible that an employee can contact the CEO of the company directly.
