Definitions:
Direct (Solid-Line) Reporting – Solid-line reporting describes a relationship between an employee and his/her direct supervisor/leader. The supervisor provides primary guidance to the employee, controls the major financial resources the employee relies on to perform his/her work, conducts performance reviews with the subordinate, and provides all other direct supervision.
Indirect (Dotted-Line) Reporting – Dotted-line reporting describes a relationship between an employee and a secondary supervisor/leader that provides additional oversight and guidance to the employee in the execution of his/her work. The intent of the dotted-line relationship is to ensure that the dotted-line supervisor/leader has the authority to provide some level of influence and leadership over the employee. The dotted-line supervisor/leader will provide input regarding the employee’s performance to the solid-line supervisor for inclusion in the employee’s annual performance review.