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The enforcement of a rigid system of discipline in the government of works of great magnitude is indispensable to success. All subordinates should be accountable to and be directed by their immediate superiors only; as obedience cannot be enforced where the foreman in immediate charge is interfered with by a superior officer giving orders directly to his subordinates.

— Daniel McCallum Report of the Superintendent of the New York and Erie Railroad to the Stockholders (1856)

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Notes from Wikiquote

Chandler commented: To illustrate more clearly these lines of authority, McCallum drew up a detailed chart-certainly one of the earliest organization charts in an American business enterprise. (p. 103)

More quotes by Daniel McCallum

The road must run save first and fast afterward.

McCallum Cited in: Roger Pickenpaugh (1998)

All that is required to render tho efforts of railroad companies in every respect equal to that of individuals, is a rigid system of personal accountability through every grade of service.

Report of the Superintendent of the New York and Erie Railroad to the Stockholders (1856)

It is very important, that principal officers should be in full possession of all information necessary to enable them to judge correctly as to the industry and efficiency of subordinates of every grade.

Report of the Superintendent of the New York and Erie Railroad to the Stockholders (1856)

A single track railroad may be rendered more safe and efficient, by a proper use of the telegraph, than a double track railroad without its aid

Report of the Superintendent of the New York and Erie Railroad to the Stockholders (1856)

Business of a private and important character, which cannot be neglected without great pecuniary sacrifice, has induced me to make this the occasion of tendering my resignation.

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Attribution

Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: Daniel McCallum (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.