Which term is defined as the ability to make decisions?

Which term is defined as the ability to make decisions?

• A. Authority
• B. Delegation
• C. Policy
• D. Contingency Plan

Answer: (A)

The ability to make decisions is authority. Authority is the formal right to decide and take actions within a defined scope, such as approving plans, allocating resources, and enforcing policies. Delegation involves passing some decision rights to someone else while the originator remains accountable, so it enlarges or shifts decision power rather than defining the inherent ability to decide. Policy is a set of rules or guidelines that shape decisions, not the power to decide itself. A contingency plan is a prepared response for emergencies, not the general capacity to make decisions.

The ability to make decisions is authority. Authority is the formal right to decide and take actions within a defined scope, such as approving plans, allocating resources, and enforcing policies. Delegation involves passing some decision rights to someone else while the originator remains accountable, so it enlarges or shifts decision power rather than defining the inherent ability to decide. Policy is a set of rules or guidelines that shape decisions, not the power to decide itself. A contingency plan is a prepared response for emergencies, not the general capacity to make decisions.