Planning is bridge between starting and ending. Setting
up targets and objective for a fixed time period and formulation an
action plan to achieve them efficiently and effectively.
Meaning:-
All organization whether it is government, a private or small business require planning . It bridges gap between where we are standing and where we want to reach.
Definition:-
"Planning is an intellectual process, conscious determination of course of action, the basing of decision on purpose, facts and considered estimates".
- Koontz & O Donnell
Features:-
- Focus on achieving goals
- Primary function
- Pervasive function
- Continuous process
- Involves decision making
- Focus
on achieving goals- organization are set up with general purpose hence
planning is purposeful . Planning has no meaning unless it contributes
to achievement of predetermined organizational goals.
- Primary
function- planning is 1st and important function of management.
Planning lays down the base for the other function of management
- .Planning
precedes other function.Thus, planning is referred as primary function
of management.It provides the basis of all other function.
- Pervasive
function- planning is required at all levels as well as in all
departments of organization.It is not exclusive function of management
nor of any particular department.Scope of planning defers at different levels and among different departments.
Example:- Top Level- undertakes planning as whole organization.
Middle Level- for departmental planning.
Lower Level- for day to day operational planning.
4. Continuous process-Plans are prepared for specific period of time.
At the end of that time new plan is to be drawn on the basis of new
requirement and future conditions. Hence, it is continuous process.
5. Future
oriented process- It involves looking ahead and preparing
for future. Purpose of planning is to meet future events.It involves
peeping into future.
6. Involves
decision making- It essentially involves choice from various
alternatives and activities. The need for planning arises only when
alternatives are available. Thus, it involves through examination and evaluation of each alternative and choosing the appropriate one. Happy New Month Of August 2021
