When is a recommendation considered in official channels?

A recommendation is considered in official channels when it is signed by the recommending official and a higher official because this process indicates that the recommendation has gone through the appropriate levels of authority and endorsement. The involvement of both the recommending official and a higher authority ensures that the recommendation has been adequately vetted and has the support required for it to be taken seriously and acted upon within the organization. This dual-signature requirement reflects a structured approach to decision-making, which is crucial in maintaining transparency and accountability in official processes.

The other options do not sufficiently establish the formal recognition of a recommendation within official channels. A signature by just a member does not imply approval or endorsement from an authority capable of making decisions. Likewise, while the approval by the unit or electronic submission may have their own importance, they do not inherently provide the hierarchical endorsement needed for a recommendation to be considered valid in official channels.