Introduction to Management and Management Process

During the prehistoric days of man living on hunting, life was rather simple but then too, men hunted and women tended for food. They chose a leader who could lead them into hunting, and they chose someone to make their hunting equipment sharp and precise. They stored food for the lean days and sought new places to find food.

At a very rudimentary level, this was planning, specialization, and division of labor, all of which are part of management. As man progressed, his activities became more complex and multi functional teams came into being. His management techniques, perhaps, became more complex too, but its fundamental remained the same.

According to Harold Koontz, “Management is an art of getting things done through and with people in formally organised groups. It is an art of creating an environment in which people can perform as individuals and can co-operate towards the attainment of group goals”. According to F.W. Taylor, “Management is an art of knowing what to do, when to do, and see that it is done in the best and cheapest way”.

Importance of Management

• It helps in achieving group goals
• Optimum utilization of resources
• Reduces costs
• Establishes sound organisation
• Establishes equilibrium
• Essentials for prosperity of society

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