Centralized refers to a system or organization in which power, decision-making authority and control are concentrated in one central location. In such systems, there is usually a single point from which all operations are coordinated, with subordinate units or departments responsible for carrying out specific tasks or functions under the direction of the central authority. This approach can be seen in various fields including government administration, business management and information technology, where data and resources are managed through a centralized system that is controlled by a single entity.