Planning is the logical setting of a series of goals. These goals focus on differing aspects of
an organization. Planning is important at all levels of management. Characteristics of
planning vary from company to company and from different levels of management within
a company. In light of the four functions of management, planning, organizing, leading and
controlling, planning is the fundamental function of management from which the other
four stem.
Prior to developmental planning, Microsoft contemplates internal and external factors that
significantly impact the planning phase of the four functions of management. These factors
set the course for everything Microsoft considers throughout the planning phase. The
internal factors include organizational direction, human and asset management. The
external factors include collaboration, political issues, technological advances, legislative
issues, environmental issues and globalization.
Internally, consideration of Microsofts organizational direction is outlined in their mission
statement. Additional consideration is lent to the strategic plan. Human and asset
management is comprised of budget forecasts, working practices, and organization culture.
Microsoft management appreciates and celebrates diversity in the planning phase.
Externally, Collaboration consists of demographical changes and partnership working in
Microsofts workforce. Political Issues contain, accountability, and equal opportunity.
Technological advances at Microsoft will alter the delivery mechanisms for service and
information. Therefore, Microsoft plans a change competencies for several positions the
quality of external recruitment. Legislation issues impacts Microsofts planning stage in the
areas of product and service distribution and employment legislation. Greening of the
Planet is a top priority in almost every community throughout the world. Therefore,
Microsoft proactively considers environmental issues in their planning phase.
