What are the four primary functions of management?

The four primary functions of management are planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. Each of these functions plays a critical role in the effective management of an organization.

Planning involves setting objectives and determining a course of action for achieving those objectives. This is the foundation of good management, as it establishes the direction in which the organization will move.

Organizing encompasses the arrangement of resources and tasks to implement the plans effectively. This includes defining roles and responsibilities, establishing relationships, and allocating resources to ensure that everything necessary for the achievement of goals is in place.

Leading is the process of motivating and directing individuals or teams to achieve the organization’s goals. This function involves communication, motivation, and guidance, which are essential for fostering an effective work environment.

Controlling entails monitoring performance, comparing it with established standards, and taking corrective action when necessary. This function ensures that the organization remains on track to meet its goals and allows managers to identify areas that require improvement.

In contrast, the other choices represent terms related to management but do not encompass the widely accepted framework of management functions established in classic management theory. They may include relevant activities but lack the comprehensive categorization provided by planning, organizing, leading, and controlling.