HOW many managers do we need to approve the application for a one-day vacation leave of an employee? In many cases, the average number is three signatories. If you think I'm exaggerating, then check out your own company policy. Imagine this true story as told by a reader: An employee files for a one-day vacation leave application so he could attend the recital of his young daughter in school.

He filed the application one-week in advance, knowing the leave form requires the approval of three signatories — the line supervisor, manager and department head. The process took so long that it took the employee to wait for several days while hoping and praying that his request be approved.