There is a powerful prerogative of authority that few dispute but is often overlooked: the simple ability to command people's time and attention. Suppose you fear customer service is being ignored. But instead of imposing new procedures, you have your people join you in talking about service to ten customers each. Such assignments, along with asking for reports or calling meetings, can bring attention to an issue or problem and let people discover it for themselves. That's usually better than dictating a solution.
