Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification Practice Exam

What is the term for the delineation of various responsibilities within a department?

1. A. Span of control

2. B. Division of labor

3. C. Job sharing

4. D. Team structure

The correct answer is: B. Division of labor

The term that refers to the delineation of various responsibilities within a department is known as the division of labor. This concept involves assigning specific tasks and responsibilities to individuals or teams to ensure efficiency and clarity in operations. By clearly defining who is responsible for what within a department, organizations can enhance productivity, avoid confusion, and ensure that all necessary functions are fulfilled by the appropriate personnel. In contrast, the other concepts mentioned have different meanings. Span of control refers to the number of subordinates that a manager can effectively oversee, which is more about leadership structure rather than task assignment. Job sharing involves two or more employees sharing a single job role, which can lead to flexibility but not necessarily a clear delineation of responsibilities across a department. Team structure refers to how a team is organized and how team members interact, which can be broader than the specific allocation of tasks typical in a division of labor scenario. Thus, the division of labor is the most accurate term in this context.