What does a solid line on an organizational chart represent?

A solid line on an organizational chart represents line authority, indicating a direct supervisory relationship between positions. This means that the person at the top of the line has the authority to make decisions and is responsible for the performance of those below them in the hierarchy. Employees who occupy positions connected by a solid line are typically accountable for their work and report directly to their supervisor, which reinforces the concept of clear, direct command and reporting structures within the organization. This visual cue helps clarify who has decision-making power and who is responsible for whom, which is crucial for understanding the dynamics of authority and responsibility in an organization.