for decentralized decision making to be successful it is predicated on a belief that top executives should establish a collegial, collaborative culture where decisions are made by general consensus on what to do and when. strict enforcement of detailed procedures backed by rigorous managerial oversight is necessary because company personnel cannot be counted on to act wisely or keep costs to a bare-bones level. decision-making authority should be pushed down to the lowest organizational level capable of making timely, informed, competent decisions. most company personnel have neither the time nor the inclination to direct and properly control the work they are performing and that they lack the knowledge and judgment to make wise decisions about how best to do their work. lower-level managers and employees should go up the ladder of command for approval on most all strategic and operating issues of much importance.