Management can be defined as the process of planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling the organization resources so as to reach the desired goals.
There are various set of management functions classified by different scholars, in this article we are going to discuss the five functions of management by KOONTZ and O’DONNEL which are planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling (POSDC).
Managers apply these functions of management in a proper oder to achieve the objectives and goals of their organizations.
Functions Of Management as proposed By KOONTZ And O’DONNEL
- Planning
- Organizing
- Staffing
- Directing
- Controlling
1. Planning
This is a core function of management. It involves setting organizational goals and objectives, determining the appropriate strategies or ways to achieve targeted goals as well as choosing the best alternatives for the strategies. During planning managers anticipate the possible risks that may happen in the future and deciding an approximate way to deal with them. According to Koontz, "planning is an act of deciding in advance - what to do, when to do & how to do. It bridges the gap from where we are & where we want to be".
2. Organizing
This is a second function that follows after planning. Organizing involves arrangement and allocation of resources, grouping tasks, assigning duties, establishing power and authority in various positions for the aim of attaining organizational goals efficiently and effectively.
3. Staffing
This is a third function of management that involves recruiting a right personnel in a right position or a job. It also involves evaluating employee's performance, training and developing employees as well as transferring and promoting employees. According to Koontz & O’Donell, "Staffing involves manning the organization structure through proper and effective selection, appraisal & development of personnel to fill the roles designed in the structure”.
4. Directing
It involves leading, influencing, supervising, instructing, inspiring and guiding employees toward reaching the organizational goals. It focuses on giving orders and instructions to subordinates. The basic elements or components of directing are leadership, motivation, supervision and communication.
5. Controlling
Controlling involves evaluating and comparing the actual performance of the employees with the set standards of an organization as well as identifying the deviations and taking corrective action to achieve predetermined goals.
Conclusion
Those were five functions of management as proposed by two scholars, KOONTZ and O’DONNEL other scholars include:
Luther Gulick proposed seven functions which are "Planning, Organizing, Staffing, Directing, Co-ordination, Reporting and Budgeting - (POSDCORB)".
Henri Fayol proposed "Planning, Organizing, Commanding, Coordinating, and Controlling - (POCCC)".
But also George & Jerry, proposed "four fundamental functions of management which are planning, organizing, actuating and controlling".
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