Features of management { AR GI DM}
1. An Activity
Management is a continuous and dynamic activity that involves planning, organizing, directing, and
controlling resources to achieve organizational goals. Managers engage in decision-making, problem-
solving, and communication as part of this activity.
2. A Process
Management follows a systematic process involving interrelated functions. These functions include:
• Planning: Setting objectives and defining strategies
• Organizing: Allocating resources and assigning tasks
• Directing: Guiding and motivating employees
• Controlling: Monitoring performance and making corrections
3. A Discipline
Management is an established field of study with principles, theories, and practices. It draws
knowledge from various disciplines such as economics, sociology, and psychology, offering structured
learning for those interested in leadership and decision-making roles.
4. Required at All Organizations
Management is essential for every type of organization, whether it's a business, non-profit, or
government entity. Effective management ensures efficient use of resources, smooth operations, and
goal achievement, irrespective of the organization's size or industry.
5. Goal-Oriented
Management focuses on achieving organizational objectives efficiently and effectively. These goals
can include profit maximization, market expansion, customer satisfaction, or social responsibility.
6. Group Effort
Management involves coordinating the efforts of individuals working together as a team to achieve
common goals. The success of management depends on cooperation and collaboration among
employees at various levels.
7. Global Function
In the modern era, management practices are applicable worldwide. Multinational corporations,
international trade, and global competition make management a global function, requiring
adaptation to diverse cultural and economic environments.
8. Intangible
Management cannot be seen or touched but is evidenced through the outcomes achieved, such as
increased productivity, improved employee morale, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
9. Dynamic
The business environment constantly changes due to technological advancements, market trends,
and legal regulations. Management must adapt to these changes to ensure the organization's
survival and growth.
10. Management and Society
Management plays a crucial role in shaping society by creating jobs, providing goods and services,
and contributing to economic development. Ethical management practices promote sustainability
and social responsibility.
Nature of management {MD UR}
1. Multidisciplinary
Management draws knowledge and principles from multiple disciplines such as economics,
sociology, psychology, and statistics. For example, economics helps in decision-making, psychology
guides employee motivation, and statistics assists in data analysis.
2. Dynamic in Nature
Management adapts to changes in the internal and external business environment. These changes
may be related to market trends, technological advancements, economic conditions, or regulatory
policies. Effective managers anticipate and respond to these changes for the organization's success.
3. Relative, Not Absolute Principle
Management principles are not rigid or fixed; they are flexible and adaptable based on the situation
and organizational needs. For example, leadership styles can vary depending on the workforce and
market conditions.
4. Management - Science or Art
Management is both a science and an art:
• Science: It involves established theories and principles that can be studied and analyzed.
• Art: It requires creativity, intuition, and personal skills to apply these principles effectively in
real-world situations.
5. Management as a Profession
Management is recognized as a profession as it involves formal education and training, adherence to
ethical standards, and the application of specialized knowledge to achieve goals efficiently.
6. Universality of Management
Management principles are universally applicable across different types of organizations, industries,
and functions. Whether it’s a manufacturing company, service industry, government agency, or NGO,
management practices are essential for success.
Importance of management {AOE CI}
1. Optimum and Profitable Utilization of Resources
Management ensures that an organization's human, financial, and material resources are used
efficiently and effectively. Proper resource allocation minimizes waste and maximizes productivity,
leading to better financial outcomes.
2. Effective Leadership and Motivation
Managers provide leadership and motivation to employees, inspiring them to work towards
achieving organizational goals. Effective communication and a clear vision from management create
a positive and productive work environment.
3. Establishing Sound Industrial Relations
Management plays a vital role in maintaining harmonious relationships between employees and the
organization. Fair policies, effective grievance handling, and conflict resolution promote industrial
peace and employee satisfaction.
4. Achievement of Goals and Objectives
Management helps in setting and achieving both short-term and long-term organizational goals. By
formulating strategies and aligning team efforts, management ensures that objectives are met within
deadlines.
5. Change and Growth
Management helps organizations adapt to changes in the business environment, such as
technological advancements, economic fluctuations, and market demands. A well-managed
organization is more likely to grow and sustain itself over time.
6. Improves Standard of Living
Efficient management contributes to better-quality products and services at competitive prices. This
benefits society by enhancing the standard of living and contributing to economic development
through job creation and innovation.
FUNCTION OF MANAGEMENT
1. Planning
Planning is the process of setting objectives and determining the best course of action to achieve
them. It involves deciding what to do, when to do it, and how to do it. Effective planning includes
forecasting future trends, setting goals, and formulating strategies to accomplish those goals.
2. Organizing
Organizing involves arranging resources and tasks to achieve the planned objectives efficiently. This
function includes defining roles, delegating authority, and coordinating resources (human, financial,
and material) to create a structured workflow.
3. Staffing
Staffing focuses on recruiting, selecting, training, and developing employees to fill various roles in the
organization. It ensures that the organization has competent and skilled personnel to perform the
necessary tasks.
4. Directing
Directing involves guiding, supervising, and motivating employees to work towards the organization's
objectives. Effective communication, leadership, and decision-making are essential elements of this
function.
5. Controlling
Controlling ensures that actual performance aligns with the planned objectives. It involves setting
performance standards, measuring actual performance, comparing it with the standards, and taking
corrective actions when necessary to achieve organizational goals.
Scope of management
1. Planning
Planning is the foundation of management. It involves defining organizational goals, forecasting
future conditions, evaluating different courses of action, and selecting the most suitable strategy.
Effective planning ensures proper resource utilization and organizational success.
2. Organizing
Organizing entails arranging resources and activities systematically to achieve the objectives set
during planning. It includes assigning tasks, establishing relationships, and coordinating resources like
human capital, finances, and materials.
3. Staffing
Staffing involves hiring the right people for the right roles within an organization. It covers
recruitment, selection, training, and development to ensure that the workforce is competent and
aligned with organizational goals.
4. Directing
Directing is about guiding, motivating, and leading employees to perform their duties effectively. This
function requires communication, leadership, and supervision to maintain a motivated and
productive workforce.
5. Controlling
Controlling ensures that the organization's activities are progressing according to the plans. It
involves setting performance standards, comparing actual outcomes with these standards, and
taking corrective actions when deviations occur.
Features of Science
1. Clarity of Concepts
Science is characterized by well-defined and precise concepts. These concepts help scientists
communicate ideas clearly and effectively without ambiguity. For example, concepts like gravity and
inertia in physics are universally understood.
2. Scientific Methods
Scientific methods are systematic steps used to investigate phenomena, acquire new knowledge, or
correct and integrate previous knowledge. These methods include observation, hypothesis
formulation, experimentation, and analysis of results.
3. Clarity of Theory
Theories in science provide a logical framework to explain observed facts. They are based on
empirical evidence and are subject to testing and validation. Clear theories enhance understanding
and guide further research.
4. Causal Relationship
Science seeks to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables. Understanding these
relationships allows scientists to predict outcomes based on certain conditions. For example, in
chemistry, mixing specific chemicals causes predictable reactions.
5. Systematized Theory of Knowledge
Science organizes information in a structured and coherent manner. This systematization helps in the
classification of facts, development of theories, and formulation of laws that are universally
accepted.
6. Universal Application
Scientific principles are applicable universally under similar conditions. Regardless of geographical
location, scientific laws like Newton’s laws of motion hold true.
Introduction
Management is a unique field that incorporates both scientific principles and artistic skills. It cannot
be strictly categorized as either science or art because it involves systematic knowledge as well as
creativity in applying that knowledge.
Management as a Science
Management qualifies as a science due to the following reasons:
1. Systematic Body of Knowledge:
Like science, management has an organized set of principles and concepts.
2. Cause and Effect Relationship:
Principles of management establish predictable outcomes (e.g., motivation theories).
3. Principle-Based Decision-Making:
Management relies on tested and validated theories like Taylor's Scientific Management.
4. Universal Application:
Management principles apply across industries and sectors under similar conditions.
Management as an Art
Management also exhibits characteristics of art:
1. Personal Skill and Creativity:
Effective management depends on the creativity and experience of managers.
2. Practical Application:
Managers often adapt theoretical principles to suit specific situations.
3. Dynamic and Evolving:
Like art, management techniques evolve with time and changes in business environments.
4. Judgment and Intuition:
Managerial decisions often require a blend of analysis and intuition.
Conclusion
Management is both a science and an art. The scientific principles provide a structured foundation,
while artistic skills help managers creatively solve problems and lead organizations effectively.
Combining both ensures efficient and innovative management practices.
