Research, identify and discuss the 4 basic functions of management Essay

Research, identify and discuss the 4 basic functions of management. .Week TWO - Essay Example Having done a SWOT analysis, it can then proceed to making a more detailed strategic plan. An example of the planning stage is when a marketing manager designs a marketing plan in launching a new product. Wijesinghe enumerates various positive characteristics of planning such as being â€Å"goal-oriented, primacy, pervasive, flexible, continuous, involves choice, futuristic and involves mental exercise† (Wijesinghe, 2010, par 5). The second function of management is organizing. Organizing involves gathering all the resources of the company including the physical, human and financial resources. The tasks or activities that are needed to be done should be classified and assigned to the particular departments and individuals. Responsibilities are created and authorities delegated (Norman, n.d.). The organizing function of management is important because it encourages specialization, describes the work that must be done and by whom and it categorizes authority and command (Wijesinghe, 2010). Leading is the third management function. Under this function, the manager motivates and positively influences the employees so that they will be able to perform their tasks well. Managers should learn to communicate effectively with the employees to ensure that the company’s goals are achieved. Providing for monetary as well as non-monetary incentives may be necessary to influence and motivate the employees. Managers must be able to teach and assist the employees especially when they are faced with difficulties in performing their duties. The last function of management is controlling. Controlling involves â€Å"measuring achievement against established objectives and goals† (Norman, n.d., par 5). If there is any deviation from the achievement of the goals, the manager must identify the reason for the deviation and think of a way to correct it (Norman, n.d.). Monitoring and evaluating employee performance is a part