Position Descriptions

The Position Description is the third tool in the management system. Although we discussed this when we described the empowerment structure, we want to emphasize here the importance of this tool for providing everyone with clarity on their goals and responsibilities.

There are two parts to the Position Description that are especially useful to the management system: Goals and Authority. These two items should provide a clear understanding between manager and team member regarding desired outcomes and certain boundaries.

The goals of the position define the major criteria for success. If the person in the position accomplishes the goals, they generally will be successful in the position.

The authority section of the Position Description outlines the limits to the authority for the person in the position. Usually, these relate to something such as spending and contractual limits. For example, the position may carry the authority to spend up to $1,000, outside of budgeted funds per quarter, for discretionary items. Similarly, the person in the position might have the authority to contract with a new customer for up to $50,000.

In this authority section, the Position Description helps to define the boundaries required for you to create an effective empowerment structure. The Position Description makes it clear where the boundaries exist, making everyone’s life easy, because it brings clarity and avoids ambiguity.