Direction
Meaning and Concept of Direction
Direction is the managerial function which brings organization into action. Management prepares plans, forms organization, appoints competent employees and implements plan through direction. Direction establishes a bridge between planning and implementation. In conclusion, direction is the management tool to bring an organization into action to implement plan and to gain defined objectives efficiently and effectively. It involves many elements like supervision, motivation, communication and co ordination.
Nature/Features of Direction
Direction brings plan into action and initiates to gain organizational objectives. The main features of directing are
- management function,
- pervasive function,
- continuous functions,
- action oriented,
- chain of command
- inter-personal function
Principles of Direction
Directing is based on some basic principles. Every manager from the top to first-line level of management has to consider these principles. The main principles of direction are
- harmony of objectives,
- unity of command,
- friendly supervision,
- scalar chain,
- effective communication,
- orientation principle,
- outstanding leadership,
- principle of comprehension,
- effective motivation,
- follow up
Components of Direction
Supervision refers to direct and immediate guidance to the subordinates to ensure the execution of assigned works. The main motive of supervision is to ensure for the optimum utilization of human and physical resources. Supervision is a continuous process till the completion of defined works.
Motivation is the process of encouraging and stimulating workers to do their works in best possible efficiency. It is an inner state that directs and sustains behavior towards the achievement of common goal. The motivation of workers means to develop working efficiency of the organization.
Leadership is the art of influencing the behavior and performance of subordinates. It is the ability to persuade others to work together willingly to achieve desired goal. Managers must have clear vision how to gain organizational objectives through good leadership quality
Communication is the transmission of information from one person to another person of different places for definite objectives. Effective communication system is essential for effective operation of an organization. The effectiveness of direction depends upon the effectiveness of communication system. There must be the system of direct and clear follow of information in the organization.
Coordination is the process of integrating and combining the activities of all the departments and units to bring unity of action. It facilitates to develop the practice of teamwork among all the team members of the organisation to achieve the organizational goal.
Importance of Direction
Through directing managers issue necessary instruction and guidance to subordinates. It also ensures whether such instructions are carried out in accordance with plan or not. This is a must to gain organizational objectives. Some points of importance of direction are
- initiate action,
- improve efficiency,
- integrate efforts,
- ensures coordination,
- best utilization of resources,
- facilitates flexibility,
- stability of employees,
- ensures survival and growth
