An organization structure is a set of planned relationships between groups of related functions and between physical factors and personnel required for the performance of the functions. The organization structure is generally shown on the organisation chart. It shows authority and responsibility between various positions in the enterprises by showing who reports to whom. Organization structure lays down the pattern of communication and coordination in the enterprises. Though organization structure is very important, it is not an end in itself. According to Peter F. Drucker, “Organisation is not an end itself, but a means to end of business performances and business results. Organization structure is an indispensable means; and the wrong structure will seriously impair business performance and may even destroy it. Organization structure must be designed so as to make possible the attainment of the objectives of the business for five, ten, fifteen years hence.” Organizing Function of Management Continue reading
Management Basics
Systems Approach to Management
Systems approach to management developed after 1950. Many pioneers during as E.L Trist, AK Ria, F.E. Kast, and R.A Johnsm have made significant contributions to this approach. This systems approach looks upon the management as a ‘System’ of as an organized whole make up of sub-systems integrated into a unity or orderly totality. The attention should be given so overall effectiveness of the system rather than effectiveness of any sub-system if isolation. It took where management process school left off in attempting to unify management theory. It emphasizes the inter-relatedness and inter-dependence of all activities within an organisation. It is based on system analysis. It attempts to identify the nature of relationships of various parts of the system. A system is a set of inter-connected elements or component parts to achieve certain goals. An organisation is viewed by the modern authors as an open system. An organisation as a system Continue reading
Written Analysis of the Case Study Problems in Management
There is a little difference between the classroom discussion and written analysis of case problem. The following steps can guide the students to analyse the case problem and arrive at best possible solution. 1. Summary of the case: The important facts in the case are pointed out in brief. It is the indication that the student has grasped the contents of the case precisely. 2. Identify the problem involved in the case: After giving a careful reading to the case, see certain apparent problems in the situation. Some are very prominent and most immediate. Whereas some may be partially indicated. The student has to mention the basic problem interwoven in the case, e.g. a case may indicate failure in delegation due to too much interference of the boss; another case may indicate the need for taking appropriate disciplinary action to set things right with regard to labor management Continue reading
Decentralization – Meaning, Advantages and Disadvantages
Meaning of Decentralization Delegation of authority and duties is usually referred to as decentralization in which set up the organization is divided into different section and departments in order to help the organization grow scientifically and with a purpose of direction leading to harmony in relations and healthy atmosphere which generally is absent in centralized system of organization. Decentralization of authority, holds Koontz and O’Donnell, “is a fundamental phase of delegation.” To the extent that authority is not delegated is obviously centralization. In the words of Henry Fayol, “every thing that goes to increase the importance of the subordinate’s role is decentralization.” Decentralization is diffusion of authority. It is a process by which specific responsibility is assigned to subordinates. Such a responsibility, when assigned to subordinates, is always followed by sufficient authority which also is given to the executive and other subordinates at lower levels. Decentralization, therefore, refers to assigning Continue reading
Importance of Management Control in an Organization
Importance of Management Control Control is an indispensable function of management. Without control function, the management process is incomplete. In business organizations, the need for control arises due to several factors; Firstly, it is difficult to establish fully accurate standards of performance in large and complex organizations. An executive needs all kinds of timely information, which are not always available. Control is required to judge the accurate of standards. Secondly, there are several temptations in business. Employees are entrusted with large sums of money and valuable resources. In the absence of control employees may yield, to these temptations. An efficient control system helps to minimize dishonest behavior on the part of employees. Thirdly, in the absence of control employees may become lax in their efforts and their performance may be below normal. The signals at, a busy road crossing very well illustrates the significance of control. Just as road signals Continue reading
Employee Empowerment – Meaning and Its Effectiveness
In such a competitive environment, the organizations have to continuously provide quality products, better services and need to bring innovation to stay in the business and generate profits. To conduct such activities, efficient and empowered employees are essential. In the past, the authority was not delegated to the employees and it centered on the managers who were responsible for making all the decisions in the interest of the organizations. This had limited the creativity to show up since the employees were not able to express or share their ideas. Empowerment in the recent years has been considered as the most important factor that contributes to the success of the organization. The creative energy and potentials of employees benefits the shareholders, suppliers and customers as well. Empowerment means delegation of decision making authority when there is a need to take action which is important for both the managers and employees. Following Continue reading