Dear Maurice, I think you've over analyzed the question. The distinction between "dumping" and "delegating" is simply the level of control or authority an individual has over an assigned task. Yes, "dumping" is usually the conveyance of an unpleasant or uninteresting task to a subordinate who doesn't have the authority to control the process, which usually results on a negative outcome. Typically, dumping does not result in enhanced skill development, its just "grunt work" and is perceived as such by the employee who is "dumped on". Delegation on the other hand, can be a powerful process for a leader, if done properly. Here the leader gives the individual the authority make independent decisions and control the outcome, a critical step to effective delegation. Delegating without authority becomes dumping. The objective and subjective analysis you present is beyond the intent of the question; however, if it works for you then I'd suggest reflecting on it in a "real world" application and how your subordinates responded. Dr. Robert Roehrich