Mgt 330 - Four Functions of Management

Four Functions of Management

MGT 330

October 15, 2007

Management is defined as the process of working with people and resources to accomplish organizational goals (Bateman and Snell, 2007, p.26). Everyone has or will have to deal with management in one way or another. Some of us are managers, work with managers or ask to speak to mangers throughout our daily activities. Management does not only involve managers but how we execute our daily tasks. Planning, organizing, leading and controlling are the four functions of management. This paper will define the meaning of these functions and how they relate to my work experience as a project coordinator.

Planning is specifying the goals to be achieved and deciding in advance the appropriate actions needed to achieve those goals. Planning activities include analyzing current situations, anticipating the future, determining objectives, deciding in what types of activities the company will engage, choosing corporate and business strategies, and determining the resources needed to achieve the organization's goals (Bateman and Snell, 2007, p.27). A project coordinator has to implement precise planning. All factors have to be considered when setting goals and objectives at the genesis of a project. Some factors are budgeting, finding resources, relying on outside vendors, time restraints and tracking progress. Time restraint is the most common factor that is challenging. Most of my clients have large projects that need to be completed and delivered in a short period of time. Careful planning, in my position, is a must in order to provide excellent service to my clients.

Another function of management is organizing. It is the management of assembling and coordinating human, financial, physical, informational, and other resources needed to achieve goals (Bateman and Snell, 2007). In order to have a successful project, organizing the plan is essential. Once goals and objectives are put in order, it is easier to delegate tasks. This is very important especially when time is a factor. Forming an outline or inputting information on a calendar is very helpful. This allows a visible aid to make sure all tasks are on schedule. I usually keep an excel spreadsheet to track all spending. Clients almost always have a budget for various projects. Being organized helps me identify potential cost savings that can be offered to clients. Some clients request details concerning their project. Having the information readily available is bonus in the eyes of clients. They are more than likely going to use our service again or recommend using me to other coworkers.

Leading involves the manager’s efforts to stimulate high performance by employees (Bateman and Snell, 2007). A project coordinator has to lead in order to produce a triumphant project. A leader must delegate tasks and motivate everyone involved. A leader has to guide the involved parties to ensure tasks are completed on time. Most of my projects involve outside vendors. I have