Last Function of Management
In management, the last function is called “Controlling.” Controlling involves monitoring organizational performance, comparing it to predetermined standards and goals, identifying deviations and variations, and taking appropriate corrective measures as needed.
In order to ensure that organizational activities align with established plans and objectives, it is a continuous and iterative process. Below is a detailed explanation of management’s controlling function:
Developing standards:
The controlling function begins with establishing standards against which actual performance can be compared. Various aspects of organizational performance can be measured using standards, including quality, quantity, time, cost, efficiency, and effectiveness. Based on these standards, performance can be evaluated to determine whether it meets the desired standards.
Performance measurement:
Having established standards, it is time to gather relevant data and information about an organization’s activities and processes in order to assess actual performance. Various measures can be used to measure performance, including financial reports, performance indicators, customer feedback, employee evaluations, and operational metrics.
In order to assess how well the organization is performing, it is necessary to collect accurate and timely measurements.
Performance comparison with standards:
After measuring performance, it is important to compare actual results with the established standards. This comparison allows for the identification of deviations or variations from the desired levels. When deviations are positive, they are referred to as positive variances, and when they are negative, they are referred to as negative variances.
Analyzing deviations:
After deviations are identified, the next step is to analyze them and understand their causes and implications. The factors contributing to deviations are investigated, including process inefficiencies, resource constraints, external factors, or human error. Corrective actions must be taken based on an understanding of the root causes of deviations.
Taking corrective actions:
As a result of the analysis of deviations, management takes corrective actions to bring performance back into line with established standards. It may be necessary to revise processes, allocate additional resources, provide training and development, change strategies, or address other issues that are inhibiting performance as part of corrective actions.
In order to improve continuously, negative deviations need to be eliminated or minimized.
Evaluation of results:
Controlling also involves evaluating the results of the corrective actions implemented. In order to determine if the measures implemented have been effective and if they have successfully resolved the performance issues, this evaluation is carried out. If the results are satisfactory, the organization can continue with its ongoing activities.
However, if the results are not as expected, further adjustments or alternative actions might be necessary.
Feedback and learning:
Managers and employees receive valuable feedback from the controlling function, allowing them to learn about their performance and identify areas that need improvement. The feedback loop allows the organization to learn from past experiences, identify strengths and weaknesses, and make informed decisions about future plans.
Feedback and Communication:
Establishing effective feedback and communication mechanisms within an organization is crucial to control. Using feedback loops, managers receive timely information about performance, deviations, and corrective actions. It is imperative for managers and employees to remain informed and adjust accordingly when relevant information flows throughout an organization.
Performance Measurement Tools and Techniques:
It is essential to use a variety of performance measurement tools and techniques in order to control. Among them are financial statements, budget reports, key performance indicators (KPIs), balanced scorecards, customer surveys, employee evaluations, and quality control measures. For managers to evaluate performance against standards, appropriate measurement tools are available.
Continuous Monitoring:
Controlling is an ongoing process that involves constantly monitoring performance. In order to identify any trends or patterns, performance indicators must be regularly tracked and reviewed, compared with established standards, and compared with established standards. Continuous performance monitoring allows managers to take corrective action quickly when deviations occur.
Exception management:
Controlling aims to manage exceptions or significant deviations from standards. A manager’s focus is on significant deviations that have a substantial impact on organizational goals rather than on every minor variation. Through this approach, management resources can be efficiently utilized and attention focuses on areas that require intervention most.
Corrective Action Planning:
It is the responsibility of the manager to develop corrective action plans when deviations are identified when performing control. In order to rectify deviations and bring performance in line with standards, these plans outline specific steps and measures that must be taken.
Setting clear objectives, determining who is responsible for what, allocating resources, and establishing timelines for implementing corrective action planning are all part of the process.
Collaboration and coordination:
Controlling involves collaborating across various levels and functions within an organization. In order to implement corrective actions effectively, managers must work with their employees, their teams, and their departments. Communication of performance expectations, cross-functional collaboration, and alignment of efforts are among the possible strategies.
Performance Evaluation and Rewards:
A control system includes evaluating the performance of individuals and teams versus established standards. This evaluation provides feedback, identifies areas for improvement, and recognizes accomplishments. Employees are motivated and reinforced to perform well when performance evaluations are coupled with rewards and recognition systems, such as bonuses, promotions, or other incentives.
Benchmarking and best practices:
The process of controlling involves benchmarking performance against industry standards and best practices. Managers can identify strengths and areas for improvement by comparing performance with external benchmarks. By benchmarking, organizations can identify opportunities for learning from and adopting best practices from successful organizations, thereby enhancing their own performance.
Technology-enabled control systems:
As technology progresses, controlling has become more and more streamlined with the use of digital tools and systems. Using software applications, data analytics, dashboards, and real-time reporting systems, organizations can monitor performance, monitor key metrics, and gain actionable insights. To make decisions and take corrective action, managers need accurate and up-to-date information from technology-enabled control systems.
Ethical Consideration: The management of an organization must also ensure ethical practices. Creating controls that promote ethical behavior, compliance with laws and regulations, and adherence to organizational values is an integral part of controlling. Monitoring fraud, maintaining data security, and promoting an integrity and accountability culture are ethical considerations.
Evaluation and feedback on the controlling process:
It is imperative that control is evaluated and feedback given to determine its effectiveness. In order to determine whether controlling activities are achieving the desired outcomes and identify areas for improvement, managers should periodically review them. An employee survey, an internal audit, or an external assessment can provide feedback on the controlling process.
In general, management’s controlling function ensures that organizational activities remain on track, and deviations from established standards are addressed promptly. Organizations can improve their effectiveness, efficiency, and overall performance by monitoring performance, comparing it with standards, analyzing deviations, and taking corrective action.
A well-designed control system helps maintain focus on organizational goals, allows for course corrections when necessary, and facilitates continuous improvement.
I am Bijisha, an enthusiast with a profound eagerness for learning. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration(BBA) from Apex College. I am constantly driven by a relentless curiosity and a genuine desire to expand my knowledge horizons.
- Frito Lay SWOT Analysis – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats | SWOT Analysis - January 11, 2024
- Fox News SWOT Analysis – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats | SWOT Analysis - January 5, 2024
- Freshly SWOT Analysis – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats | SWOT Analysis - January 4, 2024