Exercise Solutions Available
Step-by-step answers for all textbook questions in this chapter
Quick Summary
Management is not one action. It is a chain of connected functions that move from deciding goals to checking results. In answers, write them in a logical sequence: planning -> organising -> staffing -> directing -> coordinating -> controlling.
Main Functions
Planning
Planning decides in advance what is to be done, how, when, and by whom. It sets objectives and reduces uncertainty.
Organising
Organising groups activities, assigns duties, and establishes authority relationships.
Staffing
Staffing finds the right people for the right jobs through recruitment, selection, training, and placement.
Directing
Directing guides, motivates, supervises, and leads employees toward organisational goals.
Coordinating
Coordinating brings unity of action among departments and individuals.
Controlling
Controlling compares actual performance with standards and takes corrective action when needed.
Why the Functions Are Connected
- Planning decides the destination.
- Organising arranges resources.
- Staffing supplies people.
- Directing activates the workforce.
- Coordinating avoids conflict.
- Controlling checks whether the plan worked.
Planning vs Controlling
| Planning | Controlling |
|---|---|
| Decides future action | Measures actual performance |
| Begins before work | Operates during and after work |
| Sets standards | Compares results with standards |
| Forward-looking | Corrective and evaluative |
Important Questions
One Mark
1. Which is the first function of management? 2. Which function compares actual performance with standards? 3. What is staffing?
Short Answer
1. State any three functions of management. 2. Explain organising. 3. Distinguish between planning and controlling.
Long Answer
1. Explain the functions of management. 2. Why is coordination called the essence of management? 3. Explain the relationship among planning, organising, and controlling.
Common Mistakes
- Writing the functions in random order.
- Treating coordination as the same as controlling.
- Giving only headings without explanation.
- Forgetting that staffing includes training, not only recruitment.
Revision Checklist
- [ ] Six functions in order
- [ ] One-line meaning for each
- [ ] Planning vs controlling
- [ ] Why coordination matters
- [ ] Real example showing all functions