Transformational behavior may be more strongly related. Effective leaders use a mix of transactional and transformational behaviors. But, factors other than leader behavior can help insure effective performance and group maintenance. Thus, there are times when leader behaviors are unnecessary. There are times when leader behaviors are ineffective.
Substitutes directly influence intervening variables making leader action unnecessary.
Determine the relative importance of intervening variables. Leaders must understand factors affecting group performance and monitor and take appropriate action on both a short term and a long term basis. Overall decision effectiveness depends upon decision quality and decision acceptance . Participation generally leads to high levels of acceptance. Acceptance is important when a decision can affect work motivation or when subordinates must implement the decision.