Managerial levels and decision types: Middle-level managers are primarily responsible for which type of decisions used to allocate resources and establish controls?
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Astrategic
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Bstructured
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Csimulation
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Dtactical
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ENone of the above
Answer
Correct Answer: tactical
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Organizational decision-making is often categorized by level: strategic (top), tactical (middle), and operational (lower). Understanding who owns which decisions clarifies information needs and system design across the hierarchy.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- We focus on middle-level managers.
- Activities include resource allocation, policy implementation, and establishing controls.
- We must choose the most appropriate decision category.
Concept / Approach:Tactical decisions translate high-level strategy into actionable plans and budgets for departments or divisions. They are more structured and time-bounded than strategic decisions but broader and less frequent than operational decisions, aligning resources to meet strategic objectives.
Step-by-Step Solution:Match “middle level” to the classical tactical tier.Confirm scope: resource allocation and control systems sit squarely in tactical planning.Select “tactical.”
Verification / Alternative check:Management textbooks position budgeting, departmental planning, and policy enforcement as tactical responsibilities managed by middle leadership.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Strategic: Owned by top management; long-term direction.
- Structured: Describes problem nature, not decision level.
- Simulation: A technique, not a decision category.
- None: Incorrect because “tactical” fits exactly.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing “structured” with “tactical.” Structure refers to problem clarity, not organizational level.
Final Answer:tactical