'It arises from a superior-subordinate relationship wherein the subordinate is bound to perform the duty assigned to him by his superior.' Identify the element of delegation highlighted in the above lines.

The correct option is Responsibility.

Delegation is a process of sharing tasks and authority between a manager and their subordinates. It consists of three essential elements: authority, responsibility, and accountability. The given statement highlights Responsibility due to the following reasons:

• Obligation to Perform: Responsibility is defined as the obligation of a subordinate to satisfactorily perform the duties or tasks assigned by their superior.
• Superior-Subordinate Relationship: It originates directly from the superior-subordinate relationship. Because the subordinate accepts a position under the superior, they become bound or obligated to execute the work directed by that superior.
• Direction of Flow: Responsibility flows upwards, as the subordinate is always responsible to their superior for the performance of the task.

Let us look at why the other options are not correct in this context:
• Authority: This refers to the right or power to give orders, make decisions, and command resources. It flows downwards from superior to subordinate.
• Accountability: This represents the answerability for the final outcome of the assigned task. While responsibility is the obligation to do the work, accountability is being answerable for the results.
• Span of Management: This refers to the number of subordinates that a manager can effectively manage or supervise, which is a structural concept rather than an element of delegation.