Functions of Management
Management, according to Merriam-Webster, is defined as 1: the act of managing: the
conducting or supervising of something (business) 2: judicious use of means to accomplish
an end and 3: the collective body of those who manage or direct an enterprise.
(www.m-w.com).
There are four major functions of management. The first function is the planning stage.
Dessler (2003), comments that planning is the means of establishing goals and standards;
developing rules and procedures; and developing plans and forecasting. This function is a
developing stage that is ongoing and develops the organizations objectives and mission
and determines how they will be accomplished. Planning deals not only with the big
picture of an organization, such as the mission, but also small tasks, such as implementing
rules for accomplishing goals specific to that organization. Planning may be the most
important function an organization can perform. Without a sense of direction, how can
managers know what to control and where to lead?
The next function, organizing, focuses on coordination, division, the flow of information
within an organization, and overall command and control. With this function management
delegates responsibilities. In this function, management creates a structure of the working
relationships between employer and employees that allows them to work together to
achieve the goals of the organization.
The third function, leading, is very crucial as it deals with influencing behaviors through
communication, leadership and discipline, and motivation. A leader determines directions
and has a clear vision for employees to follow; in addition a leader also helps employees
