Research Paper on:
Skills and Functions of Management

Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
error until one learns what works in certain situations. However, knowledge of the processes and conditions that affect them is a great benefit for effective management" (Richardson and Richardson,  2001). Managers fulfill four specific functions: planning, organizing, controlling and leading. In this case, "leading" is equatable with influencing subordinates to work towards the achievement of the organizations goals. The  four functions are defined thusly: 1. Planning involves setting goals, objectives, developing steps to achieve the goals and objectives, identifying and gathering the resources needed and determining who will be  responsible for what and when the step will be completed. There are a number of different and diverse planning efforts in a company from strategic planning to staffing planning. The  skills needed include the ability to think critically and analytically, the ability to make good decisions and problem solving. (Bahcesehir University, nd; SCORE, nd; Buhler, 1998, p. 22; McNamara, 1999).  Planning comes under a number of different headings, such as strategic planning, program planning, action planning, position planning, budgeting, policies and procedures and procedure planning (NCSAE, 1997). 2. Organizing is  about allocating and configuring resources to accomplish the goals and objectives (Bahcesehir University, nd; SCORE, nd; Buhler, 1998, p. 22; McNamara, 1999). The manager needs to be able to organize  themselves, other staff, tasks, jobs, groups, and so on (SCORE, nd; Buhler, 1998, p. 22; McNamara, 1999). This includes making decisions regarding how to use resources, such as people and  materials (Bahcesehir University, nd). Organizing also involves designing the structure of the organization, delegating responsibilities and developing relationships (NCSAE, 1997). Organizing requires the ability to prioritize and to remain focused  on the outcome and what is needed to get there (SCORE, nd; Buhler, 1998, p. 22; McNamara, 1999). 3. Leading, or guiding employees to perform their work in a way