What is a chain of command?

• A. The clear, hierarchical line of authority that flows from the top of the organization down to the lowest level.
• B. A diagram of all employees showing positions in the company.
• C. Informal influence based on relationships and trust.
• D. The sequence of tasks in a project.

Answer: (A)

A chain of command is the formal, hierarchical line of authority that flows from the top of the organization down to the lowest level. It defines who has the power to make decisions, who is responsible for what tasks, and who reports to whom, ensuring that orders and information move in a clear, orderly way and that accountability is maintained. This clarity is essential for coordinating activities, avoiding overlapping authority, and defining roles in sport and recreation settings where safety and efficiency matter.

The other ideas describe related concepts but not the formal authority path: a diagram of all employees shows positions in an organizational chart, which maps roles but doesn’t specify who holds formal authority; informal influence based on relationships refers to social networks outside the formal structure; and the sequence of tasks in a project relates to workflow rather than who has authority to direct those tasks.