This article will help you to learn about the difference between authority and power.

Difference between Authority and Power

Difference – Authority

1. Formalization:

It is the formal right of a person to issue orders and instructions to subordinates.

2. Position:

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It is related to position that a person holds in the organisational hierarchy. It is institutional in nature.

3. Organisation Chart:

It can be depicted on the organisation chart. It increases as one goes up the hierarchy and decreases as one goes down the hierarchy.

4. Delegation:

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As it vests with higher authorities on the organisation chart, it can be delegated to people at lower levels.

5. Parity:

Authority is normally commensurate with responsibility i.e., parity between authority and responsibility is maintained in the organisation.

6. Formal:

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Since authority is derived by virtue of position that a person holds in the organisation, it is formal in nature.

7. Organizational relationship:

It exists between superiors and subordinates.

Difference – Power

1. Formalization:

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It is not a formal right but the ability of a person to issue orders and instructions to subordinates.

2. Position:

It is related to the person; his qualities, experience and expertise that enables him to influence the behaviour of others. It is personal in nature.

3. Organisation Chart:

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It cannot be depicted on the organisation chart. People at lower level can have more power than those at higher levels and vice versa.

4. Delegation:

It cannot be delegated. It is the ability of a person to influence the behaviour of people who may be senior or junior to him.

5. Parity:

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There is no parity between power and responsibility. A person with minimum responsibility can have maximum power.

6. Formal:

Power being attached to a person, can be both formal and informal (legitimate power is formal in nature).

7. Organisational relationship:

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It exists between two persons, whether or not related to each other in the organisational hierarchy.