Authority Protocols (LO1)

Question 1

Where would businesses usually outline their protocols for new staff?

Answer 1

In an employee handbook: either digital or printed format.

Question 2

What is a protocol?

Answer 2

The rules that outline the correct behaviours and procedures that should be followed in given situations.

Question 3

What are 6 different types of protocol?

Answer 3

*Authority protocol
*Confidentiality protocol
*Document content
*Checking protocol
*IT Security protocol
*Employment protocol

Question 4

What is authority protocol?

Answer 4

Refers to someone who has the authority to “sign off” certain tasks and has responsibility for particular decisions.

Question 5

What are 2 factors which can affect authority protocol in organisational structure of a business?

Answer 5

*Authority
*Responsibility

Question 6

Can authority be passed down or passed up?

Answer 6

Authority can be passed down the chain of command as less senior staff are powered.

Question 7

Examples of when authority can be passed down

Answer 7

Managers authorising payments to suppliers.

Question 8

Can responsibility be passed up or passed down?

Answer 8

Responsibility is passed up to staff at a higher level in the organisation.

Question 9

Examples of when responsibility can be passed up

Answer 9

A complaint that has been escalated to a manager.

Question 10

What is one reason why a business should have authority protocol in place?

Answer 10

Senior staff can concentrate on strategic issues, rather than day-to-day administration.

Question 11

What is another reason why a business should have authority protocol in place?

Answer 11

The risk of fraud is reduced as payments require authorisation by a manager.

Question 12

What is a third reason why a business should have authority protocol in place?

Answer 12

It can motivate less senior staff, whilst limiting the risk to a business.