Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

top-down

adjective

/tɒp daʊn/

Definition

A method of organization or planning that starts from the highest level and breaks down to lower levels.

Examples

In a top-down management style, executives make decisions that are communicated to employees at lower levels.
The project used a top-down approach to ensure all teams were aligned with the main objectives.

Meaning

The top-down approach involves addressing an issue or project starting from the overall concept and then being analyzed or implemented in smaller parts or details.