MBA 101 Management Concepts & Applications-Imp
MBA 101 Management Concepts & Applications-Imp
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT
4. Management is Purposeful
It acts with achievement of particular things known as ‘goals’.
5. Management is a Profession
Management poses different features of profession. Developed
principles of management are applied in practice.
7. Multidisciplinary
It draws knowledge and concepts from various disciplines as a
sociology, psychology, anthropology, geology, statistics etc.
For example: Disaster management related to geological science
discipline.
8. Profit Maximisation
Effective utilisation of management principles helps economies in
using available resources resulted in profit generation.
9. Decision-Making
Aiming a degree of right decision for the success of organisation by
choosing a best alternative course of action.
• Planning
Planning is looking ahead of things and drawing a plan accordingly. It
is the most fundamental aspect and only based on the effective
planning the working groups will perform their activities. This clearly
specifies what is to be done and when it is to be done. Without which
there is no clarity and harmony in the organization. The set vision and
goals can only be achieved if proper planning is done else it works as
a tramp from which no organization can progress towards its
achievement of its set vision.
“Planning means deciding well in advance”.
What is to be done?
How is to be done?
Where is it to be done?
Who is going to perform?
What time it is going to be implemented?
In short, “Planning means determining the future course of action”.
Planning is a function which is performed by managers at all levels
i.e. top, middle and supervisory. Plans made by top management for
the organisation as a whole may be cover period as long as five or ten
years. Plans made by middle or first line managers, cover much shorter
periods.
Introduction
14 to Management
• Organising Management Concepts
& Applications
An organization can only function well if it is well-organized ie it
involves identifications of activities required for the achievement of
set plans. Which means that there must be sufficient capital, staff and NOTES
raw materials available, so that the organization can run effectively.
The organizational structure with an effective grouping of activities is
of crucial importance during the increase in functional level activities
both horizontally and vertically. Thus, organizing results in a network
of coordinating relationships.
(a) Organising clearly defines the flow of responsibilities and the
flow of authority.
(b) Finalising activities to achieve goals.
(c) Grouping these activities into forming sections or departments.
(d) Assigning/placing personnel/managers to different sections and
departments.
(e) Providing them information horizontally and vertically.
• Staffing
Staffing is a continuous and vital function of management. After the
objectives have been determined, strategies, policies, programmes,
procedures and rules are formulated for their achievement, activities
for the implementation of strategies, policies, programmes, etc.
identified and grouped into jobs, the next logical step in the 15
management process is to procure suitable personnel for manning the
jobs. Since the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization
significantly depends on the quality of its personnel and since it is one
of the primary functions of management to achieve qualified and
trained people to fill various positions, staffing has been recognized
as a distinct function of management.
It comprises several subfunctions
(a) Manpower planning involving determination of the number and
the kind of personnel required.
(b) Recruitment for attracting adequate number of potential
employees to seek jobs in the enterprise.
(c) Selection of the most suitable persons for the jobs under
consideration.
(d) Placement, induction and orientation.
(e) Transfers, promotions, termination and layoff.
(f) Training and development of employees.
Introduction
to Management 15
Management Concepts As the importance of human factor in organizational effectiveness is
& Applications being increasingly recognized, staffing is gaining acceptance as a
distinct function of management. There is hardly any need emphasize
NOTES that no organization can ever be better than its people, and managers
must perform the staffing function with as much concern as any other
function.
(a) Staffing is also important function involved in building human
organisation.
(b) Staffing is the process of determining the manpower requirement
and the recruitment both managerial and non-managerial
personnel to various level.
(c) It involves such steps as inviting application, interviews,
selection, training and developing.
(d) Changes in the organisation creates new position and these must
be filled.
• Directing
Directing is the function of leading the employees to perform
efficiently, and contribute their optimum to the achievement of
organizational objectives. Jobs assigned to subordinates have to be
explained and clarified. They have to be provided guidance in job
performance and they are to be motivated to contribute their optimum
performance with zeal and enthusiasm.
Directing involves three sub-functions
(a) Communication
(b) Leadership
(c) Motivation.
(a) Communication: It is the process of passing information and
understanding from one person to other.
(b) Leadership: It is the process by which manager guides and
influences the work of his sub-ordinates.
(c) Motivation: It is the act of stimulating or inspiring workers will
to pull their weight effectively, loyalty towards enterprise and
carry their task effectively and efficiently.
• Coordination
Coordinating is the function of establishing relationships among
various parts of the organization that they all together pull in the
direction of organizational objectives. It is thus the process of tying
Introduction together all the organizational decisions, operations, activities and
16 to Management
efforts so as to achieve unity of action for the accomplishment of Management Concepts
organizational objectives. & Applications
• Controlling
Controlling is the function of ensuring divisional, departmental,
sectional and individual performances consistency with the
predetermined objectives and goals. Deviations from objectives and
plans have to be identified and investigated, and corrective action
taken. Deviations from plans and objectives provide feedback to
managers, and all other management processes including planning,
organizing, staffing, directing and coordinating are continuously
reviewed and modified, where necessary. Controlling implies that
objectives, goals and standards of performance exist and are known
to employees and their superiors. It also implies flexibility and
dynamism in the organization which will permit changes in objectives,
plans, programmes, strategies, policies, organizational design, staffing
policies and practices, leadership style, communication system, etc.,
for it is not uncommon that employees failure to achieve
predetermined standards is due to defects or shortcomings in any one
or more of the above dimensions of management.
(a) Establishment of standards of performance.
(b) Measuring current performance and comparing it against the
established standards.
(c) Taking action and compare the performance against standards.
Controlling should be systematic and conducted on regular basis which
will provide fruitful results to the organisation.
The above stated management functions planning, organizing, staffing,
directing, coordinating and controlling are not performed sequentially.
It is an integral process and all the functions are executed
simultaneously by the managers.
Introduction
to Management 17
Management Concepts
& Applications
1.5 IMPORTANCE OF MANAGEMENT
NOTES
For merely, the word “Management” was used mostly in relation to circus
and restaurants. But of late, it has acquired much glory and significance.
Tremendous growth in science and technology enhance the possible
developments in management principles and practices.
Consequently, we all must understand the importance of management traced
in the following context.
1. Effective and optimal utilisation of resources.
2. Efficient accomplishment of pre-determined goals.
3. It helps in achieving group goals.
4. Incorporate innovation through adopting modern technologies.
5. Establishes equilibrium to survive in the changing environment
6. Sound organisation structure.
7. Integrating the management and employees and labour interests as well
as government.
8. Coordination and team spirit.
9. Tackling problems.
10. Builds corporate image.
Management as a Science
Science is a systematic body of knowledge that works on facts and
establishes cause and effect relationship between two or more variables and
underlines the principles governing their relationship. Like scientific principles
which represents basic truth, management also contains some fundamental
principles which can be applied universally to any type of organization. Example:
Principle of Unity of Command. Like Science management also establishes cause
and effect relationship. For example if a worker is given bonus, fair wages he
tends to work hard whereas, when he is not treated properly his productivity
decreases. One of the important features of science is its test of validity and
predictability, which is prevalent in management too. For example in organization
a worker getting instruction from one boss is supposed to work better than the
one who is getting instructions from two boss. Management is not as exact as
Introduction
18 to Management science as it deals with human beings and it is very difficult to predict behaviour.
Management as an Art Management Concepts
& Applications
Art states the application of knowledge and skills for obtaining desired
results. A person can never be successful just by obtaining degree; he should
understand various principles and apply where ever necessary. Like art NOTES
management is also personalised. Every manager has his own way of managing
things based on his knowledge, experience and personality that is why some
managers are known as good managers and others bad. Management is also
creative in nature like any other art. It combines human and non-human resources
in useful way so as to achieve desired results. Thus we can say that management
is an art.
Administration
Administration is the core element for any enterprise, whether it is run for
profit or not it is concerned mainly with decision making, policymaking and
performing necessary adjustments. It is not concerned with the implementations
of policies rather it frames policies and helps in deciding the goals for achieving
it. Persons like owners or the Board of Directors are in charge of it.
According to Theo Haimann, “Administration means overall determination
of policies, setting of major objectives, the identification of general purposes and
laying down of broad programmes and projects”. It refers to the activities of
higher level. It lays down basic principles of the enterprise.
According to Newman, “Administration means guidance, leadership &
control of the efforts of the groups towards some common goals”. Introduction
to Management 19
Management Concepts Features of Administration•
& Applications
• Administration is concerned with formulation of broad objectives, plans
& policies.
NOTES • Administration is a decision-making function.
• Administration decides what is to be done & when it is to be done.
• Administration is a thinking function because plans & policies are
determined under it.
• It is applicable to non-business concerns i.e. clubs, schools, hospitals etc.
• The administration is influenced by public opinion, govt. policies,
religious organizations, customs etc.
• Administration represents owners of the enterprise who earn return on
their capital invested & profits in the form of dividend.
Organisation
Organization is a system with group of persons working together for
achieving its goals. It is concerned with building, developing and maintaining
the structure of working relationships in order to accomplish the objectives of
the enterprise. Thus, it works on determination and assignment of duties to
individuals. It also works on establishing and maintaining relationship among
the grouped activities.
Organising is concerned with various activities necessary for the attainment
of the objectives:
(i) Assigning people to various activities,
(ii) Providing suitable physical factors of environment, and
(iii) Delegating each individual with respective activity
Introduction
20 to Management
Table 1.1: Historic Building Blocks Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
The period between 1700 and 1850 highlights the Industrial Revolution and
the writing of classical economists. Several economists during the period
explained in their writings the concepts and functions of management.
The situation started changing with the beginning of 20th century, especially
the Word War I created the situation where people started thinking of solution to
problem of how limited resources could be applied in better way. The World War
II added further problems to this end.
The further of evolution of management thought might best be explained
by approaches through understanding the different contributors and variety of
intellectuals – economists, sociologist, psychologists, anthropologists,
mathematicians and management practioners.
Introduction
to Management 21
Management Concepts The evolution of management thought during the last hundred years can be
& Applications studied in three parts. Classification of management thoughts on the basis of time
specification.
NOTES (a) Early Classical Approach (Up to 19th Century): Represented by
scientific, administrative/operational approaches to management.
(b) Neo-classical Approach (1900 1970): Represented by human
relation movement, behavioural and social approaches, decision
theory approach, and management science approach.
(c) Modern Approach (1960 onwards): Represented by quantitative
system and contingency approach.
(b) Task
He determined what each worker should be producing and then
he designed the most efficient way of completing each part of the
overall task. Next, he implements an early form of Piece-rate pay
system (1885).Instead of paying all employees the same wage,
he began increasing the pay of each worker who met and
exceeded the target level of output set for worker’s job.
Introduction
to Management 23
Management Concepts (a) Task
& Applications
First he studied and redesigned jobs and timed the movements of
the most efficient workers. Then he trained the others in the
NOTES methods of their more highly skilled co-workers and transferred
or lay off the most inefficient workers. Finally, he introduced rest
period during the work day to reduce fatigue, along with his
differential pay rate system and other improvements.
(b) Result Achieved
The results of these experiments were really impressive: Costs
(expenses) fell sharply and workers productivity and quality of
output increased. Earnings and worker moral were also improved.
(a) Observation
He was entrusted with the task of maximising the work of the
company yard gang more efficiently. The workers of the yard
gang unloaded raw materials from incoming trailers and loaded
the finished product on outgoing cars. Each worker was earning
$ 1.15 per day for loading an average of 121/2 tons. The workers
were slow and were most reluctant to work faster.
(b) Task
Taylor studied the situation and timed the operations involving
unloading and loading the cars, arrived at the conclusion that the
frequent rest periods, each man could handle about 48 tons per
day. Setting 471/2 tons as the standard, Taylor fixed the daily
wages at $1.85 per day to those who could meet the standards.
This incentive pay system encouraged workers to adopt Taylors
work method, because the efficient workers could earn more.
2. Functional specialisation
After separation of planning it results in development in supervisory
system. Taylor evolved the concept of functional foremanship based
on function (specialisation). Division of responsibilities between
management and workmen equally.
Fig. 1.4
3. Job analysis
Finding best way of doing things through Time-Motion-Fatigue study:
• Determine time and movement to complete a task which takes
minimum movement.
• Elimination of wasteful movement.
• Requirement of rest intervals in work to reduce exhaustion and
use fullest capacity of workers.
4. Rate setting
Taylor has also given importance to fair wages to workers and had
recommended differential piece rate system for motivating the less
efficient workers and retaining the efficient workers.
Introduction
to Management 25
Management Concepts 5. Standardisation
& Applications
Standardisation is made in respect of tools and instruments, working
hours, volume of work, working condition and cost economies etc.
NOTES
6. Scientific recruitment and selection
Recruitment and selection started on the basis of workers qualification,
experience, physical and technical suitability for specific jobs.
7. Economy
While applying scientific management not only science and
technology is important, but adequate earning and profit through
controlling the cost should also be considered.
8. Mental revolution
Ensure close cooperation between management and labour for
maximising efficiencies and productivity. Both management and
labour should develop positive attitude for the successful use of
scientific management practices.
3. Co-operation
Workers and management should unitedly co-operate with each other
for higher output. Greater co-operation can build confidence and
improve the quality of work.
4. Maximum output
Scientific management application is useful for bridging the gap
between management and employee through division of work, healthy
working condition, fair wages etc. So that it can result in larger profits,
Introduction
to Management better quality products and lower cost of production.
26
5. Improvement of workers Management Concepts
& Applications
Under scientific management, workers should be recruited and
selected according to the task and their capability. Also Taylor
emphasizes on systematic training and development of workers for NOTES
physical, educational and psychological requirements of each job.
Introduction
Fig. 1.5 to Management 27
Management Concepts Henry Fayol is the French industrialist, before that he was working as
& Applications mining engineer. His contribution generally termed as operational
management/administrative management. He is father of Administrative
NOTES Management Principles. Fayol wrote the book titled ‘Administration Industrielle
at Generale’ in French language in 1916. English version of book was published
in 1949, USA. He has used the term ‘Administration’ instead of management.
His administration science can be applicable equally well to public and private
affairs. Fayol found that activities of an industrial organisation divided in
six group.
Fayol has divided his approaches into three parts
• Managerial qualities and training.
• General principles of management.
• Elements of management.
2. Mental qualities
To understand, learn judgement and adaptability.
3. Moral
Moral qualities for maintaining dignity, loyalty, tact, firmness etc.
4. General Education
For understanding other people’s opinion and general knowledge
regarding human behaviour of self and others.
5. Special knowledge
About technical, financial, commercial and managerial functions.
6. Experience
Arising by doing day-to-day activities at work.
Introduction
28 to Management
1.10.2 General Principles of Management Management Concepts
& Applications
Henry Fayol developed a set of 14 principles of management which are as
follows:
NOTES
1. Division of Labour
Division of labour is division and subdivision of work which leads for
job specialization. More and better works with same efforts are
possible by division of work. Application of work division process is
possible at all levels of management.
3. Unity of Command
Employees should have only one boss to avoid confusion, delay and
misunderstanding.
6. Unity of Direction
Organisational members having the same objectives, must have one
and only one head and one plan regarding work activity. One plan of
action to guide the organisation.
7. Equity
Treat all the employees fairly with justice and respect. It brings loyalty
in the organisation.
8. Order
Fayol emphasized on maintaining orderliness in work throughout
suitable organisation of men, machines and material. It means right
place for everything which ensures healthy industrial relations.
9. Initiative
Manager should encourage employees and workers by offering
freedom to think and freedom to execute. Develop zeal and energy in
employees by giving sufficient scope for their intelligence.
10. Discipline
Discipline is essential at all levels of management. According to
Koont’z and O’Donnell, “Discipline is the respect for agreements
which are directed at achieving obedience, application, energy and the
outward marks of respect.
11. Remuneration
Employees should get satisfactory and reliable remuneration.
Determine the fair wages on the basis of their performance. And the
payment of wages should be made within time.
14. Espirit-de-Corps
This mean unity is strength, share enthusiasm or devotion to the
organisation. Management should create team spirit, harmony and
unity. All this can be made possible through removing
misunderstandings, distrust and by clarity in communication.
QUESTIONS
1. Explain the need and scope of management in every type of
organization.
2. Explain the management skills essential for efficient and effective
management with examples.
3. Explain the function of management
4. What do you understand by the term “Managerial Decision-Making”?
5. Discuss the various approaches to the theory of management.
6. Discuss the contribution of F. W. Taylor in the field of management.
7. “Henry Fayol is known as father of modern management.” Discuss.
*****
Introduction
to Management 31
MODULE - 2
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Management Functions
1 MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS
2. Organizing
It is classification of work done by effective synchronization of various
human and non-human resources to put the plan in to action.
3. Staffing
It involves selection of right candidates, their training and execution
of the stated work while working in harmony.
4. Directing
It involves decision making and delegation of task for its execution.
5. Coordinating
It involves interlinking of the various components of the work.
6. Reporting
It involves updating your superiors with progress of the activities
related to the work.
7. Budgeting
Management
Functions 33
Management Concepts Step 3: Identify the alternatives
& Applications
As soon as we are clear with the information gathered, it helps in clear
understanding of the issue. Thus it results in identifying various solutions. At this
NOTES stage range of options comes up with which a best course of action is prioritised
for achieving the set objectives.
Step 4 : Weigh the Evidences
In this step brainstorming is done to evaluate the set of decisions for its
feasibility, acceptability and desirability to understand the best alternative among
the available solutions. Thus by understanding the cause and effect of each
alternative, option with highest chance of success is selected.
Step 5 : Choose among the Alternatives
In this step, experience and effectiveness of the judgement principles come
into play. It is to understand the risk involved with the chosen option. Thus each
and every alternative is compared based on its positives and negatives.
Step 6 : Take Action
This is the stage where the planned decision is converted in to a sequence
of activities. This also involves the identification of resources needed for its
execution.
Step 7: Review your decisions and its consequences
Evaluation of the outcomes is done at this stage. It is often ignored but an
important step in the decision making process, as it is the core element in
evaluating the effectiveness of the decision taken.
Questions NOTES
1. Explain the decision making process in detail ?
2. How management functions are performed at Coca-Cola. Discuss ?
3. Imagine you are a practicing manager. Analyze the various skills you
have in relation to the level of your job ?
4. Give a detailed account of the different levels of management that are
commonly found in any large scale organization. What are the
important skills at each level ?
Case Study
Mr X is working as a manager in a company ABC Ltd. Due to financial
crises in the organization; the company was not able to pay the salary from last
three months. Due to this crisis employees felt insecure and started shifting
company. The company is facing this type of situation for the first time. There is
no past records and experience to tackle this situation. This needs an immediate
attention, if not handled properly may harm the reputation of the organization.
a) What steps should the manager take in this situation ?
b) “ Here a manager becomes a leader” comment
c) List down the qualities of a manager
*****
Management
Functions 35
MODULE - 3
Management Concepts
& Applications
3.1 PLANNING
Planning
38 & Organizing
5. Choosing Best Course of Action Management Concepts
& Applications
The stage is testing the positive and negative results of the actions of
all the alternatives, which means have detailed evaluation and analysis
of selected course of action. NOTES
• Delegation of Authority
It helps in smooth delegation of authority. It helps a subordinate
to respond quickly on an issue as long as the issue fits in to their
standing plan.
• Control
Policies and procedures are designed in such a manner that it
automatically controls the operations and thus, helps manager
with a smooth time in directing and controlling them.
• Co-ordination
Standing Plan helps in bringing co-ordination between the
activities of the organization. Every individual’s efforts are thus
synchronised towards achieving common goals.
Thus standing plan helps in having an effective control over the
operation of the organization. It helps to create harmony in the
organization by helping in having a smooth operation.
(ii) Single use plan
Single use plans are useful for only one purpose and for one time.
Every situation has unique requirements and situations for which new
plan has to be made. Things like projects, budgets, standards,
schedules which are altered and modified as per the requirements of
the objectives. Single use plans are result oriented and provides
practical guidelines to managerial activities. Thus they provide a great
motivation to the managers. For example program is a plan to carry
out a special project within the organization. The project changes from
time to time as per requirement. It is made with some purpose and after
its achievement; it is altered in to a new project as per the demand of
the organization. Likewise, budget is a financial plan stating how funds
will be spent on various functional levels to get a needed result. Thus,
single use plan is a time-bound and helps in introducing definiteness
in planning.
Planning
42 & Organizing
Management Concepts
& Applications
B 3.2 ORGANIZATION
NOTES
3.2.1 INTRODUCTION OF ORGANIZATION
Organisation is the form of human association for attainment of common
objectives. It is an arrangement by which a group of people would be brought
together to pool their efforts through functional division of duties, responsibility
and authority.
Organisations are found in all walks of life. Factories, trading concern,
shops, commercial establishments, government offices, banks, schools and
colleges, hospitals, charitable trusts, social work groups and political parties, all
find it necessary to build organisation to carry their activities. Organisation is the
formation of the effective machinery for handling men, materials and the process
of combining the work which individuals or group have to perform.
Planning
& Organizing 43
Management Concepts 3.2.4 Principles of organization
& Applications
• Unity of objectives
• Principle of authority
Authority is a kind of power that guides the actions of others for
achieving the goals of the organization. Appropriate decision making
is a key aspect of authority. It generally flows from higher level to the
lowest level of management. There should be sequence of line of
authority.
• Principles of Responsibility
The top level management directs the subordinates who take up the
task and perform effectively. Authority and obligation is provided to
the subordinates for their work so that they can perform the duties is
known as responsibility.
• Principle of Delegation
It is the process of transferring authority and creation of responsibility
between the superior and the subordinate to accomplish tasks. This is
called delegation of authority.
• Principle of efficiency
The organization facilitates different resources which should be used
efficiently. Things that are achieved with minimum resources is
effective. Thus, the organization always works on building efficiency.
c) Classification of Activities
The next step will be to avoid duplication by classifying the activities
according to similarities and common purposes and functions and
taking the human and material resources into account. Then, closely
related activities are grouped into divisions and departments and the
departmental activities are further divided into sections.
d) Assignment of jobs
Job assignments are made to different subordinates for ensuring a
certainty of work performance. Each individual should be given a
specific job to do according to his ability and made responsible for
that. He should also be given the adequate authority to do the job
assigned to him.
e) Delegation of Authority
Authority without responsibility is a dangerous thing and similarly
responsibility without authority is an empty vessel. Everybody should
clearly know to whom he is accountable; corresponding to the
responsibility authority is delegated to the subordinates for enabling
them to show work performance. This will help in the smooth working
of the enterprise by facilitating delegation of responsibility and
authority.
Example - Tourism Organisation
(a) Objectives: To become a best tourism company through quality
service.
(b) Departmentation: Booking center, Reception, Organiser, Tour
guide, Finance department, Collection center, Advertisement.
(c) Key department: Booking center and collection center.
(d) Authority: Right to cancel the tour plan in bad condition of
nature.
(e) Span of control: Tour organiser control over the activities.
(f) Co-ordination: Co-ordination in between booking center, tour
Planning organiser, local guide and other department is necessary to
46 & Organizing achieve organisational objectives.
3.2.7 DEPARTMENTALISATION Management Concepts
& Applications
The first step in designing an organisation structure is to divide whole work
into number of jobs to ensure that no important activity is left out. The next step
is to bring together homogeneous jobs into groups and to decide their relation to NOTES
each other. This process is known as departmentation.
Organising process is to group the jobs in some logical arrangement, which
answers such questions as :
1. How should the workers be grouped together ?
2. How many people should be in each work unit ?
3. How many layers of management is best ?
4. Who should report to whom ?
Definition of Departmentation
“A departmentation is a process of dividing the large monolithic functional
organisation into small and flexible administrative unit.”Koontz and O’ Donnell
Process of Departmentation
Example - Marketing Departmentalisation:
1. Identification of Work : What is the task ? (Marketing task)
2. Analysis of Task : What to do ? (Penetrate the market)
3. Description of Activities : (Advertising, Personal selling, Distribution,
Pre-post services)
4. Staff Provision (Grouping) : Allocate the manpower according to
key areas, (advertise manager, sales manager, distribution manager)
5. Provision of Authority and Responsibility.
Planning
& Organizing 47
Management Concepts Basis (Pattern/Types) of Departmentation
& Applications
There are certain basic methods of dividing the duties and responsibilities
within organisational structure. They are given below :
NOTES
(a) Departmentation by numbers.
(b) Departmentation by functions.
(c) Departmentation by products/services.
(d) Departmentation by process.
(e) Departmentation by Region/Geography/Location/Territory.
(f) Departmentation by customers.
(g) Departmentation by time.
(h) Departmentation by marketing channel.
(i) Departmentation by combined base.
Features
1. Rarely used.
2. Number of people are important.
3. Group is under the order of leader.
Example : Army includes Regiment, Battalion etc.
Limitations
1. Number is the base, therefore, if less number of member in group mean
less efficiency.
2. Departmentation by number is used at lower levels for unskilled job.
3. Not useful to big organisation.
Planning
48 & Organizing
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Fig. 4.1
Advantages
1. Understand task.
2. Excellence in performance.
3. Improve in planning and control feasibility.
4. Proper utilisation resources.
5. Gives power and prestige to dept. head.
6. Simple in operation.
Disadvantages
1. Interdepartmental conflicts/disagreement.
2. Excessive centralisation of authority.
3. Less scope for development of manager.
Planning
& Organizing 49
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Fig. 4.2
Advantages
1. Exclusive attention to customer need.
2. Able to determine performance in product mix.
3. Adding or pruning of item in product range/line/width, is easier.
4. Each and every information related to product is make available.
5. Useful for complex and diverse product.
6. Fix the accountability of each product department.
Disadvantages
1. Many salesmen assigned to different product can confuse the customer.
2. Additional expenditure incurred for manufacturing and maintaining
different products and product departments.
3. Create conflict among salesman in different product divisions.
Fig. 4.3
Planning
50 & Organizing
Example : Production of Biscuit. Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Fig. 4.4
Example : Milk Processing Unit
Fig. 4.5
Advantages
1. Proper use of costly and heavy equipments in effective manner.
2. Follow the principles of specialisation, increase efficiency.
3. Suitable to process oriented manufacturing unit.
4. Chain of production help to take economic advantages.
Disadvantages
1. Useful to only small organisation.
2. More expensive to carry more number of departments.
3. No opportunity to managerial development.
4. Department become hostile.
Planning
& Organizing 51
Management Concepts [E] Department by Region/Geography/Location/Territory :
& Applications
Production or marketing units are dispersed at various location.
NOTES
Fig. 4.6
Fig. 4.7
Advantages
1. Regional competition motivates for performance.
Planning
52 & Organizing 2. Expert with regional work.
3. Provide training about regional work. Management Concepts
& Applications
4. Low cost of operation because of knowledge of area, opportunities,
customers and market conditions.
NOTES
5. Low absentism.
Disadvantages
1. Dispersed branches are difficult to control properly.
2. Higher cost in maintaining branch head in different locations.
3. Not suitable to production oriented units because availability of raw
material, labour and infrastructure in selected location.
Fig. 4.8
Advantages
1. Earn goodwill through attention on customer needs.
2. Good management in peak demand.
3. Application of CRM concept is possible for developing strong
customer base.
Disadvantages
1. Improper utilisation of resources in case of limited customers.
2. Leads to duplication of activities by different department.
3. Unequal treatment is given to customers by different departments.
Planning
& Organizing 53
Management Concepts [G] Departmentation by Time
& Applications
The business activities are grouped together on the basis of the time required
for the performance. Generally, this type of departmentation is used in case of
NOTES production activities.
Example : Shiftwise departmentation (Day shift, Night shift).
Advantages
1. Increase the output in available time.
2. Department by time helps in efficient performance.
Disadvantages
1. Accident or any kind of incidence may influence the shift wise work.
2. Part of work of one shift passes to next shift.
3. Unable to measure performance of particular shift.
Fig. 4.9
Planning
54 & Organizing
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Fig. 4.10
Advantages
1. Cost cutting.
2. Useful to understand regional knowledge.
Disadvantages
1. Critical to control for president.
2. Member less loyal to parent department.
Planning
& Organizing 55
Management Concepts A staff function supports the organization with specialized advisory and
& Applications support function. For example, human resource, accounting, public relations and
the legal department generally come under staff function. Their function is to
NOTES create, develop, collect and analyse shop information and provide line workers
with appropriate advice. The Staff members act as an advisory group who are
not line managers but are more or less permanently detailed to special service or
to the study of some phases of operations. It has four kinds of authority
a) Advice authority
Line Managers seek advice from staff person and decide what to do
with the advice once they get it.
c) Concurrent authority
The line manager cannot finalize a decision without the agreement of
the staff person.
d) Functional authority
The staff person has complete formal authority over his other area of
specialty.
The line and staff system strikes a happy balance between the two. In an
organization “Line” is supplemented by “Staff”. This pattern of organization
came into being as a result of the departmental managers having to investigate,
think and plan and at the same time, they have to perform ordinary task of
production and selling. Consequently, the work of investigation, research,
recording, standardization and advising, i.e., the work of experts, is wholly
distinguished and separated from the routine process of manufacturing and
selling. Thus, there arose a clear demarcation between ‘thinking’ and ‘doing’. In
modern practice, however the difference in the two hierarchies is not clear-cut
and jobs often have elements of the both types of functions.
Planning
56 & Organizing
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Merits
• Line and Staff organization have their own respective planned
specialization. Thus it aims at combining the merits of the two.
• The authorities and responsibilities are well-defined.
• The stability and discipline of the line organization are preserved, only
the specialist is added.
• The Staff system helps in providing expert knowledge and opportunities
to the line officers for adopting a multi-dimensional view towards facing
the problem.
Demerits
• The line and staff relationship often leads to numerous friction and
jealousies.
• When there is a difference of opinion between the line and staff
managers, it results in conflict of interest and prevents a harmonious
relationship.
• Expert advice can be misinterpreted by incompetent line workers.
Planning
& Organizing 57
Management Concepts • The staff people feel themselves status-less without authority. They
& Applications remain ineffective because they don’t get the authority to implement their
recommendation.
NOTES
Questions
1. Define Organization and steps involved in performing Organizational
Activity?
2. What do you mean by Line & Staff organization, explain its features
and merits and demerits?
3. What do you mean by the Line organization its features and its merits
and demerits?
4. Explain Classification of Organization and explain its relation also?
5. What do you mean by Functional organization, explain its features and
merits and demerits?
6. Explain Delegation of Authority and its elements?
7. Discuss the steps perform by the manager in Delegation of Authority.
8. Distinguish between Authority and Responsibility?
9. What do you mean by Centralization & Decentralization?
*****
Planning
58 & Organizing
MODULE - 4
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Directing and Coordinating
4.1 DIRECTING
4.1.4 CO-ORDINATION
When organisation structure is designed and various units are to be
formed, the problem emerges that, how to integrate/synchronies the group efforts.
The best result can be achieved when all activities are performed in a coordinated
way and each activity contributes in positive way to others.
NOTES Every individual have different nature and own goal. Management
tries to integrate individual and group through co-ordination.
3. Interdependence
Co-ordination arises because of independence of organisational units
and sub-units. Performance of one unit affects the to other unit.
4. Individual interest vs. Organisational interest
Individual goals Earning (salary, bonus etc.), career.
Organisation goals Profit, growth, expansion.
Matching and integration of interest of both through co-ordination which
can reduce the conflicts.
Requisites/Principles of Co-ordination
Managers have to observe all principles, which facilitate co-ordination in
technology and application.
1. Principle of direct contact
Help to reduce misunderstanding, controversies among member or
group.
3. Principle of continuity
Co-ordination is treated as a continuous process, i.e. it means co-
ordination is a never ceasing and never-ending exercise.
4. Principle of dynamism
Co-ordination meets the changes according to the dynamism of
environment.
5. Principle of timing
Synchronising the timing of the work of all department.
Directing and
60 Coordinating
A 4.1.6 SPAN OF MANAGEMENT Management Concepts
& Applications
The Span of Management refers to the number of subordinates who can be
managed efficiently by a superior. Simply, the manager having the group of
subordinates who report him directly is called as the span of management. It can NOTES
also be named as span of control, span of authority, span of responsibility or span
of supervision. Based on the levels of the management the number of members
may be increased or decreased.
Directing and
Coordinating 61
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Advantages
1. Close control and supervision on subordinate work.
2. Fast communication is possible.
Disadvantages
1. Resulted in too much control.
2. High cost because of many layers.
3. Excessive distance between highest and lowest.
4. Accidentally or deliberately/intentionally distortion is possible.
Advantages NOTES
1. More delegation of authority.
2. More clear policy.
Disadvantages
1. Overloaded supervisors.
2. May result in loss of control.
3. Need highly trained managers.
4.1.7 AUTHORITY
Authority is a concept that provides right to command or a legal power for
exercising decision. Authority is said to be one of the crucial aspect in
organization for decision making and implementation of those decisions. No
organization, whatever its nature may be, can function effectively without
authority. Authority is required to achieve desired objectives of an organisation.
Authority is essential to be able to discharge various managerial functions.
Directing and
Coordinating 63
Management Concepts 4.1.9 Views on Sources of Authority
& Applications
Authority derived from higher level. But there is a disagreement about
sources. Three different views on sources of authority are as given below:
NOTES
(A) Classical Theory/Formal Theory
1. Authority derived from formal organisation structure.
2. Authority flows from the top to the bottom level.
Example :
Flow of Authority
Shareholders
Board of Directors
CEO
Department Manager
Foreman
Workers
Fig. 4.17
(B) Acceptance Theory
Authority is just legitimate only. Sub-ordinate should accept the leader. Sub-
ordinate should be ready/willing to be directed by an authoritative person. If not
accepted by employees, he may lose control and power.
(C) Competency Theory
Authorized person must be competent and possess some personal qualities
such are technical/expert competencies. Leader should have more expertise than
subordinates, otherwise the subordinates take lead on the authoritative person.
Directing and
64 Coordinating
4.6.3 Features of Authority Management Concepts
& Applications
1. Right in Authority
Right given by a supervisor which enables the manager to regulate the NOTES
sub-ordinate’s behaviour.
2. Legitimate Right
Legal provision of right where the concern person socially and
ethnically agreed and accepted the right.
3. Help in Decision-Making
Authority helps to decide the Do’s and Don’ts in an organisation by
the manager.
4. Influence on Behaviour
Control the activity of subordinate.
5. Subjective Use
Objectivity of authority is to control, influence, coercion and
subjective use to perform work and attain goal.
2. Biological Limit
Leaders cannot order subordinates to do things that are impossible by
human beings.
3. Natural Limit
Geographical situations, climate conditions and law of nature put limit
on order of authority.
4. Technological Limitation
Subordinates are unable to obey orders because of non-availability of
technology.
5. Economical Limitation
Financial conditions caused by competitors, market conditions, pricing Directing and
etc. restricted the authority to do the things. Coordinating 65
Management Concepts 6. Law
& Applications
Law of land, Partnership agreement, Memorandum of association,
MOU, Articles of association, Factories act, Company law put
NOTES restriction on authority.
4.1.11 RESPONSIBILITY
Just as authority is the right of superior to issue commands, responsibility
is the obligation of a sub-ordinate to obey those commands. Responsibility arise
from the superior – sub-ordinate relationship. In an organization, responsibility
is the duty as per the guidelines issued.
4.1.12 Definition
“Responsibility is the obligation of an individual to carry out assigned
activities to the best of his ability”.
G. Terry
“Responsibility is an obligation of individual to perform assigned duties to
the best of his ability under the direction of his executive leader”.
– Davis
“The duties and activities assigned to a position or an executive”
– McFarland.
Characteristics
1. Responsibility can be assigned to human being only.
2. Responsibility flow from bottom to top level.
3. It is absolute and cannot be delegated.
4.1.14 POWER
Many people confuse power with authority. Power is the ability to command
or apply, force and is not necessarily accompanied by authority. It has been an
important aspect of human civilization since history. Power might be physical,
political or social. In business, power dynamics tend to influence decisions and
people transactions heavily.
3. Coercive power
It is the opposite of reward power. In this type of power, the leader has
the authority to punish an employee or team member. Sometimes threat
and punishment is a weapon used to persuade an employee to act in a
certain way. In the organizational set up, it translates into threatening
someone with transfer, firing, demotions etc. It forces people to submit
to one’s demand for the fear of losing something.
4. Expert power
Knowledge is power. People who have more knowledge or experience
than other members do, in their team possess this type of power.
This is a kind of power, which owes its genesis to the skills and
expertise possessed by an individual, which is of higher quality and
not easily available. In such a situation, the person can exercise the
power of knowledge to influence people. Since, it is very person
specific and skills can be enhanced with time. This type of power has
more credibility and respect.
5. Reference power
This is a power wielded by celebrities as they have huge following
amongst masses who like them, identify with them and follow them
based on identification. This power is all about “who you know.” A
leader with lots of referent power may have many connections or a
large social network they can use to their advantage. Someone
with referent power may also be close to an executive with
legitimate power.
Directing and
68 Coordinating
4.1.17 POWER AND AUTHORITY Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
Directing and
Coordinating 69
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
6. Whole Tasks
Try to delegate whole tasks instead of dividing them into pieces. In
this way, your team members will see the development and outcome
of the task and enjoy it more. This will also prevent you from having
to worry about keeping the pieces together.
7. Time-Consuming Tasks
If you need to spend more time planning and strategizing, delegate
your most time-consuming tasks. This will free up the time you need
to do your job.
Directing and
Coordinating 73
Management Concepts What not to be Delegated?
& Applications
The following seven tasks that a manager should avoid delegating.
1. Boring Tasks
NOTES
Before delegating any task it should be made interesting or interesting
task should be delegated to others. If a boring task is to be delegated
then its importance and after effects created due to the task should be
cleared before delegating it.
2. Crises
During crisis situation there occurs a need for expertise to resolve the
issue. These issues should be resolved by a person with appropriate
background and experience.
3. Ill-Defined Tasks
Make sure that the task is explained appropriately before its delegation,
so that it will avoid wastage of time. Ill-defined task also leads to
duplication of work.
4. Confidential Matters
Leaders must deal with confidential matters at times. Do not delegate
these tasks to others as it may lose its intensity and trust of your team.
5. Praise or Reprimand
Take time out to praise a teammate for a job well done. Getting
recognition for the work done motivates and improves the morale of
the employee. If a team member needs a reprimand or needs help
getting back on track, it is best if it is dealt with that person yourself
and in private.
• Proper Communication
There should be freeflow of information between the manager and the
subordinate.T0he subordinate should be furnished with all necessary
information to carry out the task effectively. Necessary resources
should also be provided to avoid the hindrance in the process. Proper
communication is necessary for making delegation effective.
NOTES
QUESTIONS
1. Define organisation. Explain the process of organisation.
2. Define the term organisational structure. Explain division of work and
departmentation as important requisites of sound organisation
structure.
3. Give brief about organisational design.
4. Write short notes on :
(a) Departmentalisation.
(b) Authority and Responsibility.
(c) Delegation of Authority.
(d) Co-ordination.
(e) Span of control.
(f) Difference between power and authority.
Directing and
***** Coordinating 77
MODULE - 5
Management Concepts
& Applications
CONTROL
NOTES
5.1 INTRODUCTION
78 Control
Management Concepts
& Applications
5.2 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PLANNING & CONTROLLING
NOTES
Planning and controlling are two separate functions of management, yet
they are closely interdependent in any organization.Planning is the initial step
and controlling is a part of the process and is required at every step. Without the
appropriate planning, controlling activities become baseless and without effective
controlling, planning becomes meaningless task. Therefore, activities of both are
overlapping to each other.
In the present dynamic there are many factors in the environment which
affects the organization, which demands a strong relationship between the two.
When planning fails due to some unforeseen events, controlling comes to rescue.
Once controlling is done effectively, it give us stimulus to make appropriate
changes for the betterment of the plan. Therefore, planning and controlling are
meaningless without eachother.
Controlling does not exist without planning as actual work performance is
compared with the standards. If standards are not determined there is no
justification left for control and the standards are determined during planning.
Planning is like looking forward and predicting what is to be done. Whereas
controlling is looking backwards about how the specified things have been
achieved.
Planning and Controlling are concerned with the achievement of business
goals. Their combined efforts are to achieve maximum output with minimum
cost effect. Both, systematic planning and organized controlling are essential to
achieve the organizational goals.
Control techniques and systems are basically the same. Regardless of what
is being controlled, the basic control process involves four steps:
Control 79
Management Concepts [A] Establishment of Standards of Performance
& Applications
Establishment of standards is the first step in control process.
1. It is to establish standards against which result can be measured.
NOTES
2. Each organisation must first develop its own key areas.
3. Some key areas in all business organisation are profitability, public
responsibility, market position, productivity, personnel development,
employee attitude etc.
4. Common standards for control includes following types:
(a) Physical Standards:Such as labour hours, per unit of output, units
of production etc.
(b) Cost Standards:Such as Direct and indirect cost per unit, material
cost per unit, selling cost per unit.
(c) Capital Standards:Such as ROI, ratio of current asset or
liabilities etc.
(d) Intangible Standards:Such as Competence of managers and
employees, success of public relation programme etc.
Setting of standards are basis for evaluation of performance. Standardising
is desired outcome/expected in three key areas which are time standard, quality
standard, and quantity standard.
2. Actual Performance
Standards of Performance:In the second situation, where there are
deviations from the standard performance, the deviation may be
significant or insignificant. If the deviations are serious, they must be
brought to the notice of the top managers.
If the performance is according to exceptions, there does not arise the
necessity of control, it means manager may use of the principle of exceptions.
• Understandable
The system must be understandable, i.e., the control information
supplied should be capable of being understood by those who use it.
A control system that a manager cannot understand is bound to remain
ineffective. The information available is predicted differently by
different managers. It is, therefore, the duty of the manager concerned
to make sure that the control information supplied to him is of a nature
that will serve his purpose. As an illustration, it is quite possible that
top managers may understand a complicated system of control based
on statistical break-even charts and mathematical formula whilst to the
lower level manager such information would be of very doubtful
utility, being beyond their powers of comprehension. In this sense, the
data supplied as information must be understandable and helpful.
• Economical
Economy is another requirement of every control. It should be
economical in operation, i.e., the cost of a control system should not
exceed the possible savings from its use. The extent of control
necessary should be decided by the standard of accuracy or quality
required. A very high degree or standard of accuracy or quality may
not really be-necessary. Undue complexity of the control system
should be avoided to keep a check on the costs of control. It, therefore,
becomes necessary to concentrate the control system on factors, which
are strategic to keep the costs down and the system economical.
• Flexible
The system of control must be flexible so that it can be adjusted to suit
the needs of any change in the environment. i.e. it should be workable
even if the plans are changed. If the control system works only on the
basis of one specific plan, it becomes useless if the plan breaks down
and another has to be substituted. However thoroughly the plans may
have been formed or the planning premises established, unforeseen
circumstances can upset the best-laid plans. A good control system
would be sufficiently flexible to permit the changes so necessitated.
82 Control
• Expeditious Management Concepts
& Applications
Nothing can be done to correct deviations, which have already
occurred. It is, therefore, important that the control system should
report deviations from plans expeditious. No useful purpose can be NOTES
served by a deviation detected months after its occurrence. The
objective of the control system should be to correct deviations in the
immediate future. This requires that the lime-lag between the
occurrence of a deviation and its reporting be kept at the minimum
possible.
• Forward Looking
The control system must, therefore, be forward looking, as the
manager canno1 control the past. In fact, the control system can at
times be so devised as to anticipate possible deviations, or problems.
Thus deviations can be forecast so that corrections can be incorporated
even before the problem occurs. Cash forecasts and cash control is an
example in point where a financial manager can forecast the future
cash requirements and provide for them in advance.
• Organizational Conformity
Since people carry on activities, and events must be controlled through
people, it is necessary that the control data and system must conform
to the organizational pattern. The control data must be so prepared that
it is possible to fix responsibility for the deviations within the areas of
accountability. For example, where factory costs are accumulated in a
manner other than on me basis of areas of responsibility, they may lose
much of their values as an instrument of control. In this case, the actual
costs in a department may be out of line with the standards set without
the department knowing whether the deviation has been caused by
something within its control. In this sense, organization and control
are difficult to separate, being dependent on one another for effective
management.
• Objectivity
As far as possible, the measurements used must have objectivity. While
appraising a subordinate’s performance, the subjective element cannot
be entirely removed. Here the personality of both the manager as well
as his subordinate would be reflected in the final judgment. The use
of indefinite terms can frustrate the subordinate like being told that he
is not doing a good job.
Control 83
Management Concepts • Suggestive of Corrective Action
& Applications
Finally, an adequate control system should not only detect failures
must also disclose where they are occurring, is responsible for them
NOTES and what should be done to correct them. Overall summary
information can cover up certain fault areas. For instance, it is
insufficient to show merely a decline in the profits. The reason for such
declined or which also be indicated, such drop in the sales volume or
an increase in the costs. Even this is insufficient. The information
should also disclose in which market areas the sales decline which
specific costs had increased. Where a system merely detects deviations
but does not indicate corrective action, the control system becomes an
exercise in futility.
Fumeler suggests the following characteristics of an effective control
system:
1. Specific and precise activity to be controlled so that one can locate and
report deviations accurately.
2. Applies to the critical points in the organisations, systems.
3. Adheres to objectivity and is realistic in nature.
4. Flexibility, allowing operations to continue when problems arise.
5. Appropriate to overall organisational structure.
6. Economical in operation.
7. Easily understandable.
8. Not likely to become obsolete swiftly.
9. Allowing employee’s participation.
10. Including comprehensible instructions for corrective action.
84 Control
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
a) Traditional Technique
Traditional Techniques are those techniques that have been used by the
business organization for a longer period of time.
• Personal Observation
This is the most traditional technique of control. It helps a manager to
collect first-hand information about the performance of the employees.
It creates psychological pressure on the employees to improve their
performance as they are aware that they are being observed personally
by the manager. However, this technique is not to be effectively used
in all kinds of jobs as it is very time consuming.
• Budgeting
These are the quantitative statements that provide us with expected
results, from the future. It is also flexible and can be altered as per
requirement. Thus it act as a controlagent where standards are
compared with the actual performance and take necessary actions for
any deviation from attaining organizational goals. There are various
types of budgets like sales budget, production budget, material budget,
capital budget, research and development budget etc. This also ensures
optimum utilization of resources.
Control 85
Management Concepts • Financial Statements
& Applications
Financial statements show financial position of a firm over a period
of time.These are prepared along with previous year statement so that
NOTES the firm can compare its current performanceand improve accordingly.
• Setting Examples
Managers are the role model for their sub ordinates. They set example
by their style of working. Manager, can thus have control over their
subordinates and get work out of them as per needs specified.
• Standard Costing
Standard costing is a method used to control cost in the organization.
Actual cost incurred by material, labour and overheads are compared
with the standard cost and variance is observed. This works as an
effective control technique to control cost.
• Written instructions
They are some additional control agents which are provided as per the
change in the rules and regulations of the company. These instructions
guide the members to work in a specified way and controls the whole
process.
b) Modern Technique
Modern Techniques are those techniques which are very new in the world.
They provide various new aspects of controlling in organization.
• Return on investment
Organization does lots of investment in creating the fixed assets and
on working capital requirements. Profits obtained on these investment
done is the reward for the business. If the returns are high the company
is doing good and if its low they have to take necessary steps to
increase the return on investment. Thus provides a scope for correcting
actions performed.
• Management Audit
Management Audit is another modern technique of control where it
critically examines the management process for its efficiency. Team
86 Control
of experts are appointed who evaluate the managerial performance and Management Concepts
efficiency. & Applications
• PERT/CPM
Any activity in the organization undergoes a series of processes
interdependent to each other. PERT and CPM are two such techniques
which the help the management to identify the critical activities, time
and cost consumed by them. Since it divides a task in to subtask, it
brings in more clarity to the manager to minimize the cost and time
consumed.
Use of Computers
The vast number of applications of computers helps in:
• Financial statements
• Budget
• R&D
• Analysis
• Planning
• Communication
• Time management
• Decision-making
• Computerised manufacturing process
• Updating daily transactions
• Administrative activities
(Payroll, attendance, leave, appraisal, salary, calculation etc.)
QUESTIONS
1. Define controlling. Explain the process of controlling.
2. What is the relation between planning and controlling?
3. Explain various control techniques.
4. Write short note on :
(a) Types of control.
(b) Requisites for effective control.
(c) Zero Base Budgeting
(d) Management Audit
*****
90 Control
MODULE - 6
Management Concepts
& Applications
NOTES
FUNCTIONAL DEPARTMENTS
AND SECTIONS
• Marketing
Marketing is everything a company does to acquire customers and
maintain a relationship with them. It plays a vital role in promoting
the business and mission of an organization.Their job is to reach out
to prospects, customers, investors and/or the community, and create a
dominating brand image that represents the company in a positive light
among its customers. Effective Marketing and promotional activities
will drive long-term success, profitability and growth in market shares.
Its function involves creating the various marketing strategy and
planning promotional campaigns by using modern technological
advancements. They are also responsible for monitoring competitor’s
activities. Even a small tasks like writing thank-you letters, answering
calls promptly and meeting with a past prospective client for coffee
comes under the horizon of marketing. The ultimate goal of marketing
is to match the company's products and services to the needs and wants
of the people, thereby ensuring profitability of the business.
• Sales
In every business organization, sales department plays the biggest role
in its success. It is responsible for generating revenue. Its job is to
ensure that the sales of products and services result into profit. This
department coordinates with the marketing department in terms of
brand awareness, product launching and makes sure they are
contributing to each other effectively. From the time the product leaves
the production department, the sales department needs to find and
Functional develop ways to sell the product to its target customers.
Departments
92 and Sections
• Accounting Management Concepts
& Applications
The accounting department is responsible for recording and reporting
the cash flows, both in and out, of a company. This department is
responsible for all administrative functions in an organization. Though NOTES
considered "back office" activities, these functions are essential for the
proper operation of a business. The most common responsibilities of
the accounting department are billings, collections, financial
statements, internal reporting, payables, payroll and taxes.
• Finance
Finance is responsible for creation and study of money, banking, credit,
investments, assets and liabilities and also takesa lead role in studying
financial instruments for making a business. Without finance
department, no business can promote or create a business, gain assets,
develop products, run market surveys, advertise. It thus focuses on
being reactive, efficientand quantitative and risk-averse and assist the
top management to take key strategic decisions. It thus pertains to three
major decisions a) Investment Policies b) Methods of financing c)
Dividend Decisions.
• Distribution
The distribution department is responsible for receiving orders and
delivering orders to the customerat the right place, at the right time. If
the goods are not suitable for the distribution channel, expenses
involves in the distribution will be wasted.
It also includes methods of selling as well as finding appropriate
locations. The methods include direct sales, wholesalers and retailers.
Direct sales involve selling directly to the end user with no middleman.
Using a wholesaler involves a distributor to get the product into a
variety of channels where it might not be feasible for the producer to
reach their prospective end users. The stores and other outlets are used
to sell the product and make profits in retail markets.
• Management
Management encompasses decision-makers who often run the
company. The duties of the management team often involve organizing
the operations and overseeing its continuity. Business management
typically looks at the big picture to ensure that the company remains
profitable and may adjust administrative duties to reflect market
changes, handle an increase in business or reduce the workforce when
income decreases. Management usually defines company goals and
prepares strategic plans for growth. They supervise department heads
and often serve as the face of the company in public. Management
typically functions above external (political and economic) issues that
affect the business. They make decisions and goals and provide the
drive and cultural environment under which the company operates.
• Productions
The productions department is concerned in manufacturing the
products, where inputs (raw material) is converted into finished output
through a series of a production process. This department’s function
is to ensure that the raw materials are made into finished product
effectively and efficiently and in good quality. This department should
also maintain the optimuminventory level.Selection of product design,
production process, selecting right production capacity, production
planning and control, Quality and cost control, inventory control,
maintenance and replacement of machines are various tasks performed
by this department.
• Operations
Functional
The operations department is responsible for managing people,
Departments
equipment, designing, technology, information and in controlling the
94 and Sections
process of production. In a manufacturing company, operations Management Concepts
department designs processes in the production of goods and services. & Applications
It is the core function of every company regardless of the size of the
company. This department is also responsible for acquisition of NOTES
materials ensuring a functional flow of the entire business.
• IT Support
Today, no business can be imagined without IT support. It has become
crucial and an integral part of every business plan. It is responsible for
creating software for other departments as per their needs, providing
and direct operating assistance in software use and data management
of all functional areas in the organization. It has dramatically changed
how every task is performed in the business like Communication,
inventory Management, data management, Management Information
System, Customer Relationship Management etc. No business in this
age can attain long-term goals without leveraging the benefits of
information technology.
• Purchase Department
This department is responsible for the procurement of rawmaterials,
machinery, equipment and suppliesat minimum possible price based
on the company policy. This department ensures that the materials are
in the right quantity, withthe right price, made available at the right
time, for the right suppliers. It is their task to make sure the changes
in the price or material required that affects the company’s sales and
regularly inform the top management about these changes. Thus it
involves purchase requisition, quotation, order, receipt, invoice,
payment details, issue of goods etc. Thus, this department makes sure
the buying terms and conditions, negotiation, checking contracts,
scheduling orders, obtain discounts and coordination with the finance
department for these activities. It also assists with preparation of
material expenditure/purchasing budget.
• Legal Department
The legal department is responsible for providing legal services and
advice to the company in all possible manners. The various matters
handled by this department are business development, real estate
transactions, contract management, customer claims against the
company for product damages and defects, employment law, sales and
leases matters, debt collection, bankruptcy, litigation, case prosecution,
and much more. All these activities create the workflow of legal
department etc. Thus this department’s function is to provide legal
advice and guidance. Litigation management and document Functional
preparation and drafting is also done by this department. They may Departments
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Management Concepts also offer training and assistance with employee’s manuals to ensure
& Applications that the company and its employees are kept up to date on workplace
law. This department also involves handling customer’s complaints in
NOTES a professional style and represent the company if sued. They also
handle the filing of legal documents with all government agencies.
Business differs with the type of activities and products and services that it
caters to. There are three broad sectors:
• The primary sector that involves extracting and harvesting of natural
products from the earth (for example, agriculture, fishing and mining).
• The secondary sector consists of processing (for example, the
processing of stuffs produced by agriculture), manufacturing and
construction. Thus the secondary sector takes the products from the
primary sector and does something more with them.
• The tertiary sector provides services, such as retail services,
entertainment or financial services.
• Manufacturing Sector
The manufacturing sector comprises of the task involved with the
transformation of substances intoa new product. The processing
requires the use of tools, techniques and a specific process to convert
raw material in to a finished product. It is a value-add process, where
funds are generated by selling the finished products at a premium price
compared to the value of the raw materials used. Based on the
forecasted demand the inventory levels are maintained to meet the just-
in-time delivery of the product. Today manufacturing process is
automated to reduce their labour requirements whereas some
manufacturing organizations are labour intensive, based on the
countries labour cost. For this sector it a must to have a physical
location for their production and stock inventories. Production does
not necessarily take place on the manufacturer's own site; it can take
place at any point in the supply chain.
• Service sector
The Service sector, unlike manufacturers, does not hold inventory;
they create a service when a client requires it. It does not result in
ownership and it may or may not be attached with the physical product
Functional aswell. It is in terms of consultancy, training or maintenance. It is
Departments intangible in nature. Employees in a service firm are equipped with
96 and Sections specific knowledge and skills in the disciplines that it offers its
services. Service delivery is labour intensive and cannot be easily Management Concepts
automated, although knowledge management systems enable a degree & Applications
of knowledge capture and sharing. They do not require a physical
production site. They can be located anywhere. NOTES
Questions
1) Explain the role of Finance department?
2) What is the role of Legal department in business?
3) How does IT department help in business process?
4) Distinguish between manufacturing sector and service sector?
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Functional
Departments
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