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Characteristics of Management
Management is the means of managing organizational resources and getting things done through planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling. The followings 10 are the main features/characteristics of management.
Goal Oriented
In any organization, there exists a unique purpose driving its establishment. Management serves as a vital tool or framework that enables the effective utilization of human and other resources to accomplish predefined goals.
Its primary aim is to enhance productivity by harnessing human effort optimally. Through strategic planning and coordination, management ensures that objectives are met, promoting efficiency and success within the organization.
Universal Activity
Universal applicability is one of the notable characteristics of management. It is a crucial component in any human endeavor, spanning diverse organizations and locations. While the methods and procedures of management may vary, its fundamental principles remain consistent.
This implies that the principles of management are universally applicable, transcending industries and cultures. Regardless of the specific context, management serves as an essential function that guides and facilitates the achievement of goals, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in all types of organizations.
Both Science and Art
This characteristic of management explains that it can be described as a blend of both science and art. It possesses scientific elements, as it relies on fundamental principles that have universal applicability. These principles form the foundation of managerial practices.
At the same time, management is an art that requires the skill and ability to apply those scientific principles in practical situations.
Also Read: 10 Importance of Management To Business
Successful management involves not only understanding the principles but also employing creativity, intuition, and personal expertise to effectively carry out managerial functions and navigate complex organizational dynamics.
Continuous Process
The continuous process feature of management explains that it is an ongoing and perpetual process that extends throughout the entire lifespan of an organization. It necessitates that managers effectively oversee all activities within the organization, both in the present and in anticipation of future endeavors.
This implies that management is not a one-time event but a constant and dynamic effort to ensure optimal performance and adaptability. By actively managing and responding to changes and challenges, managers can steer the organization toward sustained success and growth.
Social Process
Management is an integral component of the social process, as it operates within the realm of human interactions. Its success lies in its ability to work collaboratively with people to accomplish objectives. By utilizing the skills and talents of individuals, management strives to achieve the defined goals of the organization.
However, it goes beyond organizational aims and also considers the broader social objectives. Moreover, management acknowledges and addresses the needs and requirements of employees, recognizing their importance in the overall functioning of the organization.
Dynamic Activity
Management is a constantly evolving and fluid process. What works in the present may not be suitable or efficient in the future.
It requires adaptability and flexibility to align with the evolving societal and environmental factors. To navigate the changing business landscape, management must adjust its approaches and strategies accordingly.
This dynamic nature of management ensures that organizations can effectively respond to new challenges, seize opportunities, and remain resilient in an ever-changing business environment.
Group Activity
Management comes into play when there is a collective effort involved, rather than just a single individual or authority. It pertains to a group, team, or community of individuals responsible for various managerial tasks Its significance arises when multiple people collaborate toward achieving shared objectives.
Management establishes the framework for authority, responsibilities, and processes necessary to accomplish specific tasks. It ensures effective coordination and utilization of resources within the group, enabling the attainment of common goals with efficiency and effectiveness.
Distinct Process
Management encompasses a series of interconnected functions, each serving a distinct purpose. These functions work in harmony, contributing to the overall management process. Each function is well-defined, outlining specific steps and processes required to accomplish predetermined goals.
Unlike a trial-and-error approach, management follows a systematic and structured approach to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. By integrating these functions, management establishes a cohesive framework that guides the organization toward success.
A Profession
In the world of work, there is a special profession that requires specific expertise and education. This profession is called management. As companies have grown bigger and more complex, the responsibilities of ownership and administration have become separate.
That’s why professionals with specialized skills and knowledge are entrusted with the task of managing large organizations.
These managers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and success of the company, making important decisions, and leading teams toward achieving goals.
Multi-Disciplinary in Nature
Last but not least, one of the important characteristics of management is it is multi-disciplinary in nature. It is like a diverse blend of knowledge and skills from different fields. It’s like a color palette where various disciplines like psychology, economics, sociology, and mathematics come together to create a masterpiece.
Managers borrow principles and techniques from these areas to understand human behavior, make informed decisions, analyze data, and create effective strategies.
Just as a chef combines different ingredients for a delicious dish, managers mix different disciplines to achieve success in their roles, making management a dynamic and ever-evolving profession.