Functions Of Management

Management is creative problem solving. This creative problem solving is accomplished through four functions of management: planning, organizing, leading and controlling. The intended result is the use of an organization's resources in a way that accomplishes its mission and objectives (Higgins, 1994). The nature and work of management involves effectively applying these four functions to achieve organizational success. The purpose of this paper will be to explain the four functions of management as it relates to my department. It will describe how these functions are applied to my department, and my current position.

Planning is the first required step in my department's management process, as without effective planning you cannot effectively organize, control or lead your fellow employees. All levels of management are applying these functions in some way or form (Dessler, 2001, p.24). The question is how well and how far are they doing it? There is always room for improvement in any organization and finding effective ways to manage is the beginning of a successful future in business.

Organizing helps management develop a strong team of employees to provide overall customer satisfaction. This allows employees to work together efficiently by maintaining a consistent flow of departmental procedures. Teams are established based on experience and/or expertise of the job so that the customer's needs and organizational goals are met.

The leading of our management team is done by assisting employees with escalated issues, while guiding them through the process for appropriate resolution. This management process provides an influence of powerful acts based on expertise, the ability to punish, and the capacity to control and provide valued recognition to employees. It also provides power that result from access to and control over the distribution of important information about organizational operations and future plans.

Controlling is seen as a means of correcting conflict among employees as well as the customer base. Departmental communication is used so those employees understand and are able to adapt to change when necessary. Another controlling method used is establishing standards and measuring employee's performance levels to help develop ideas to increase productivity. As you can see controlling is just as important in sustaining organizational success. Only through controlling can efficiency and effectiveness be maintained.

Effectively applying the four functions to my department can improve the way we do business. With the help of my supervisor I am able to accomplish these four functions in my position as well. Planning is important as I have goals and objectives that need to be met for overall business and personal success. I accomplish this by creating a list of tasks that should be completed by the end of the day. Because the department changes quite often, outlining a daily schedule is more feasible.