Functions of Management

In this paper I will try to define and explain the four functions of management, which are planning, organizing, leading and controlling; and how each of these functions relate to the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS).

Speaking with my supervisor, Stephen Maas, and the deputy director, Darin Brush, both said that planning is key to any organization, be it government or a large or small business. Senior management and middle management said they do not do anything without having a plan in place. (Meeting with Stephen Maas and Darin Brush, Friday, April 2, 2004) That pretty much seems to be the process, especially in State Government. The stakeholders need to be together - the leader has the vision of what needs to be accomplished, but getting the stakeholders together and agreeing on what the priorities are is key to any plan.

DWS has a strategic direction for 2004; this includes a mission statement, a vision statement, code of ethics and goals. The major objective is to develop the first official DWS Strategic Plan. This will require being aware of the development of resources, changes in the work environment and the effects towards future plans or progress.

Then the next step in the process should be organizing. The leader or senior management person needs to find responsible people with the same vision to take responsibility to create an organization or committee for the plans. The leader should be a part of the group or committee and not take sole responsibility for the project or plan; otherwise burnout is very possible. A well-defined plan will identify what the objectives and tasks are and that will give you a sense of what the resources need to be. With this, the group/committee needs to consolidate their resources around the plan; and have all the resources available to help the plan happen or at least start.

The committee itself needs to buy-in to the plan. This so a mission statement and vision statement can be developed through brainstorming, sharing the diversity of thoughts and ideas and then coming to a consensus. Even though the leader empowers the group, it is key or necessary to build off the cultural diversity of the group; and still realize that he is responsible to see that the goals are met and to keep the team focused. He/she doesn't have to do all the work, just make sure it's completed.

The third function would be leading. In keeping the people focused on the plan and helping them see the bigger vision of what is or needs to be accomplished, the plan will help the organization get to it. Basically, it's building a spree dйcor with everyone to accomplish that common vision. Leading is different management, that's getting people to see the big picture and move cooperatively toward it. It's also, building or creating a motivated environment; where there is buy-in to the overall project or outcome. The employees need to feel that their opinion is valued and they have an interest in the end result; otherwise, no there is no responsibility or buy-in.

I have noticed this happening within DWS. One of the new projects or plans that is in infancy is a Career Management System. This enables individuals to inquire about the skills, knowledge and abilities