Committees are a controversial device of organization. They consist of a group of persons to which some matter is committed. Some undertake management functions, e.g., policy making; others do not, e.g.,

operating committees. Some make decisions, others deliberate but do not decide, some have authority to make recommendations to a superior, others are formed purely to receive information without recommending or deciding.

Ad hoc committees are usually temporary, as they are created for a specific purpose, or to solve shortrange problems, rather than for administrative purposes. If they are established as part of the organizational structure, with specifically delegated duties and authority, they are called formal.

Advantages :

1. (i) Actions and ideas of related company UNITS are coordinated.
2. (ii) Communications are improved.
3. (iii) Judgement and executive talents are pooled and full use is made of specialization.
4. (iv) Responsibilities for decisions are shared, rather than borne by a person.

Disadvantages :

1. They are OFTEN a waste of time and resources, ESPECIALLY if there are unsatisfactory compromises, or delays by a few members.
2. Executives may HIDE behind committee decisions and avoid responsibility for their individual actions.

CONFUSION as to the nature of committees has arisen because of the variation of authority assigned to them. They, therefore, should have a clear purpose and be effectively led.

Committees are a controversial device of organization. They consist of a group of persons to which some matter is committed. Some undertake management functions, e.g., policy making; others do not, e.g.,

operating committees. Some make decisions, others deliberate but do not decide, some have authority to make recommendations to a superior, others are formed purely to receive information without recommending or deciding.

Ad hoc committees are usually temporary, as they are created for a specific purpose, or to solve shortrange problems, rather than for administrative purposes. If they are established as part of the organizational structure, with specifically delegated duties and authority, they are called formal.

Advantages :

Disadvantages :

Confusion as to the nature of committees has arisen because of the variation of authority assigned to them. They, therefore, should have a clear purpose and be effectively led.