In which type of management is decision-making delegated to individual branches?

Decentralized management refers to a structure where decision-making authority is distributed among various branches or departments rather than being concentrated at the top of the organization. This allows individual branches to have more autonomy and flexibility in their operations, enabling them to respond more swiftly to local needs and conditions.

In a decentralized model, branch managers and teams are empowered to make decisions that directly affect their areas of responsibility. This can lead to increased motivation and accountability among employees, as they have a direct impact on outcomes. Moreover, decentralization can foster innovation and adaptability since local leaders can make choices that best suit their market or operational circumstances without waiting for approval from higher management.

In contrast, centralized management would involve key decisions made by a small group at the top of the organization, limiting the branches’ input. Matrix management typically involves reporting to multiple managers which can complicate decision-making rather than delegating it. Hierarchical management emphasizes a strict chain of command which can also restrict local decision-making. Therefore, the characteristic of decentralized management aligns perfectly with the description provided in the question.