HKSM
Delegating
In this approach, the leader keeps primary decision control but assigns parts of planning and certain decisions to capable team members. It works best when the leader understands the project details well and must move quickly due to time pressure.
Key Points
- Leader retains overall authority while delegating select planning and decisions.
- Delegation targets team members with proven competence in the relevant tasks.
- Effective when the leader is close to the technical or project details.
- Useful under tight timelines to accelerate progress without losing control.
Example
A project manager facing a two-week deadline decides the release scope and timeline but asks the senior developer to choose the optimal refactoring approach and lets the QA lead design the regression test plan. The PM stays involved in major calls while delegating technical decisions to experts.
PMP Example Question
A project manager knows the product internals well and, due to a tight deadline, makes most key decisions while assigning certain planning and technical choices to experienced team members. Which leadership style is being used?
- Autocratic
- Delegating
- Laissez-faire
- Servant leadership
Correct Answer: B — Delegating leadership style
Explanation: The leader keeps primary decision authority but delegates specific planning and decision tasks to competent team members, especially under time pressure.
