7.1: The Four Functions of Management
The four functions of management—planning, organizing, leading and controlling (POLC)—serve as the pillars that allow organizations to meet their goals. These functions are interdependent and equally important for ensuring the smooth operation of any business. (Refer to Figure 7.1.) The four management functions can help managers increase organizational efficiency and effectiveness. Efficiency is using the least possible amount of resources to get work done, whereas effectiveness is the ability to produce a desired result. Managers need to be both efficient and effective in order to achieve organizational goals.
The management functions of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling are widely considered to be the best means of describing the manager’s job, as well as the best way to classify accumulated knowledge about the study of management. While the environment in which managers operate and the tools they use have evolved significantly, managers continue to perform these essential functions.
Media Attributions
“Figure 7.1: Four functions of management: planning, organizing, leading and controlling (POLC)” is adapted from Chapter 6: Management in Introduction to Business, © Seneca College, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA.
The ability of a business to accomplish tasks and achieve objectives using the least possible amount of resources while maintaining the desired level of quality and performance.
The ability to produce a desired result.
