DB. CAB SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

100

101

CHAPTER 3
MANAGEMENT PROCESS

SECTION A PLANNING

Section contents

(a) Meaning of Planning b) Definition of Planning c) Nature and characteristics of planning d) Basic Principles of Planning e) Importance of planning f)
Dimensions/Types of Plans g) The Planning Process (Steps in planning h) Levels of Planning i) Strategic Planning (Top management) j) Tactical Planning (Middle management) k) Operational Planning (Lower level management) l) Benefits of planning m)
Tools/Factors Aiding Effective Planning n) Barriers to Effective Planning

Learning Objectives
After studying this section, the reader should be able to
• Define and explain planning
• Explain the importance of planning
• Explain the dimensions/types of plans
• Explain the planning process/steps
• Explain the levels of planning
• Appreciate the benefits of planning
• Explain the barriers to effective planning
• Explain factors aiding effective planning
• Explain management by effective planning

A.1
Meaning of Planning
Planning (translated from the French word prevoyance = to foresee, and taken to include forecasting) means examining the future, deciding what needs to be achieved and developing a plan of action.

102 An organization is characterized by its goals or objectives which are predetermined. An organisation's ability to achieve success depends on its planning strategies, that is, planning decides in advance "what to do, how to do it, when to do it, and who do it. An organisation without planning is like a sailboat minus its rudder. Without planning, organisations are subject to the winds of environmental change, yet have little means to take advantage of the prevailing currents in determining their own direction. Planning is also the management function that involves setting goals and deciding how best to achieve them. The function also includes considering what must be done to encourage necessary levels of change and innovation. Planning provides basis for the other major functions of management-organising, leading, and controlling-by charting the course and providing the steering mechanism. This section is geared to helping you acquire a basic knowledge of planning as a major function of management.

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