Administration and Management:- Meaning, nature and significance

<2/”>a >The English word  administer‘ is derived from a combination of two Latin words and ?ministrate‘ meaning ?to serve or manage‘. Literally, the term means management the affairs of public or private. Administration refers to mobilisation of Resources – human and material- to achieve pre-set of objectives.

Administration is thus an activity undertaken in pursuit of the realisation of a goal. It is an effort requiring a group of persons, each individually carrying out certainallotted tasks, which when so performed by all, leads to the achievement of an objective which has already been established and made explicit.

Management is defined as an act of managing people and their work, for achieving a common goal by using the organization‘s resources. It creates an Environment under which the manager and his subordinates can work together for the attainment of group objective. It is a group of people who use their skills and talent in running the complete system of the organization. It is an activity, a function, a process, a discipline and much more.Planning, organizing, leading, motivating, controlling, coordination and DECISION MAKING are the major activities performed by the management. Management brings together 5M‘s of the organization, i.e. Men,Material, Machines, Methods, and Money. It is a result oriented activity, which focuses on achieving the desired output.

The nature of management can easily be brought out by the following Elements:

(i) Management is goal-oriented: Management is not an end in itself. It is a means to achieve certain goals. Management has no justification to exist without goals. Management goals are called group goals or organisational goals. The basic goal of management is to ensure efficiency and economy in the utilisation of human, physical and financial resources. The success of management is measured by the extent to which the established goals one achieved. Thus, management is purposeful.

(ii) Management is universal: Management is an essential element of every organised activity irrespective of the size or type of activity. Wherever two or more persons are engaged in working for a common goal, management is necessary. All types of organisations, e.g., family, club, university, government, army, cricket team or business, require management. Thus, management is a pervasive activity. The fundamental principles of management are applicable in all areas of organised effort.

Managers at all levels perform the same basic functions.

(iii) Management is an Integrative Force: The essence of management lies in the coordination of individual efforts in to a team. Management reconciles the individual goals with organisational goals. As unifying force, management creates a whole that is more than the sum of individual parts. It integrates human and other resources.

(iv) Management is a Social Process: Management is done by people, through people and for people. It is a social process because it is concerned with interpersonal relations. Human factor is the most important element in management. According to

Appley, ?Man- agement is the development of people not the direction of things. A good manager is a leader not a boss. It is the pervasiveness of human element which gives management its special character as a social process?.

(v) Management is multidisciplinary: Management has to deal with human behaviour under dynamic conditions. Therefore, it depends upon wide knowledge derived from several disciplines like engineering, Sociology, psychology, economics, anthropology, etc. The vast body of knowledge in management draws heavily upon other fields of study.

(vi) Management is a continuous Process: Management is a dynamic and an on-going process. The cycle of management continues to operate so long as there is organised action for the achievement of group goals.

(vii) Management is Intangible: Management is an unseen or invisible force. It cannot be seen but its presence can be felt everywhere in the form of results. However, the managers who perform the FUNCTIONS OF MANAGEMENT are very much tangible and visible.

(viii) Management is an Art as well as Science: It contains a systematic body of theoretical knowledge and it also involves the practical application of such knowledge. Management is also a discipline involving specialised training and an ethical code arising out of its social obligations.

The significance of management can be brought out by following points:-

(i) Achievement of group goals: A human group consists of several persons, each specialising in doing a part of the total task. Each person may be working efficiently, but the group as a whole cannot realise its objectives unless there is mutual cooperation and coordination among the members of the group. Manage- ment creates team-work and coordination in the group. He reconciles the objectives of the group with those of its members so that each one of them is motivated to make his best contribution towards the accomplishment of group goals. Managers provide inspiring Leadership to keep the members of the group working hard.

(ii) Optimum utilisation of resources: Managers forecast the need for materials, machinery, money and manpower. They ensure that the organisation has adequate resources and at the sametime does not have idle resources. They create and maintain an environment conducive to highest productivity. Managers make sure that workers know their jobs well and use the most effi- cient methods of work. They provide training and guidance to employeers so that they can make the best use of the available resources.

(iii) Minimisation of cost: In the modern era of cut-throat competition no business can succeed unless it is able to supply the required goods and Services at the lowest possible cost per unit. Manage- ment directs day-to-day operations in such a manner that all wastage and extravagance are avoided. By reducing costs and improving efficiency, managers enable an enterprise to be com- petent to face competitors and earn profits.

(iv) Survival and Growth: Modern business operates in a rapidly changing environment. An enterprise has to adapt itself to the changing demands of the market and Society. Management keeps in touch with the existing business environment and draws its predictions about the trends in future. It takes steps in advance to meet the challenges of changing environment. Changes in busi- ness environment create risks as well as opportunities. Manag- ers enable the enterprise to minimise the risks and maximise the benefits of opportunities. In this way, managers facilitate the continuity and prosperity of business.

(v) Generation of EMPLOYMENT: By setting up and expanding busi- ness enterprises, managers create jobs for the people. People earn their livelihood by working in these organisations. Managers also create such an environment that people working in enterprise can get job satisfaction and happiness. In this way managers help to satisfy the economic and social needs of the employees.

(vi) Development of the nation: Efficient management is equally important at the national level. Management is the most crucial factor in economic and social development. The development of a country largely depends on the quality of the management of its resources. Capital Investment and import of technical know how cannot lead to economic growth unless wealth producing resources are managed efficiently. By producing wealth, management increases the NATIONAL INCOME and the living standards of people. That is why management is regarded as a key to the economic growth of a country.,

Administration and management are two closely related concepts that are often used interchangeably. However, there is a subtle difference between the two. Administration is the process of planning, organizing, and directing an organization. Management, on the other hand, is the process of overseeing the day-to-day operations of an organization.

Administration and management are both essential for the success of any organization. Administration ensures that the organization has a clear vision and goals, and that it has the resources it needs to achieve those goals. Management ensures that the organization’s resources are used efficiently and effectively, and that the organization’s operations are running smoothly.

There are many different theories and models of administration and management. Some of the most well-known theories include scientific management, bureaucratic management, and human relations management. These theories offer different perspectives on how to best manage an organization.

There are also many different techniques and tools that can be used in administration and management. Some of the most common techniques include BUDGETING, planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling. These techniques can be used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization.

Administration and management require a variety of skills. Some of the most important skills include Communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership. These skills are essential for effectively managing an organization.

Administrators and managers play a variety of roles in an organization. Some of the most common roles include planning, organizing, directing, and controlling. These roles are essential for the success of any organization.

There are many different qualities that are important for administrators and managers. Some of the most important qualities include Integrity, honesty, fairness, and a commitment to excellence. These qualities are essential for building and maintaining a successful organization.

Administration and management face a number of challenges. Some of the most common challenges include change, competition, and Globalization/”>Globalization-3/”>Globalization. These challenges require administrators and managers to be flexible and adaptable.

There are a number of trends in administration and management. Some of the most important trends include the increasing use of technology, the growing importance of diversity, and the need for sustainability. These trends are changing the way organizations are managed.

The future of administration and management is uncertain. However, it is clear that administrators and managers will need to be prepared to deal with a number of challenges in the years to come. These challenges include the increasing complexity of organizations, the growing importance of technology, and the need for sustainability.

In conclusion, administration and management are two essential functions of any organization. They require a variety of skills and qualities, and they face a number of challenges. However, they are also essential for the success of any organization.

What is administration?

Administration is the process of organizing and managing resources to achieve a desired outcome. It can be applied to a wide range of activities, from running a small business to managing a large government agency.

What is management?

Management is the process of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling an organization’s resources to achieve its goals. It involves setting goals, developing strategies, and allocating resources to achieve those goals.

What is the difference between administration and management?

Administration is the broader term, while management is a more specific term. Administration can refer to any process of organizing and managing resources, while management specifically refers to the process of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling an organization’s resources to achieve its goals.

What are the functions of administration?

The functions of administration include planning, organizing, directing, and controlling. Planning involves setting goals and developing strategies for achieving those goals. Organizing involves allocating resources and creating a structure for the organization. Directing involves motivating and leading employees. Controlling involves monitoring performance and making adjustments as needed.

What are the principles of administration?

The principles of administration are the basic concepts that guide the process of administration. They include the following:

  • Unity of command: Each employee should have only one supervisor.
  • Division of labor: Work should be divided into specialized tasks.
  • Delegation of authority: Managers should delegate authority to their subordinates.
  • Span of control: A manager should only have a limited number of subordinates.
  • Scalar principle: There should be a clear hierarchy of authority in an organization.
  • Order: There should be a logical and consistent order in an organization.
  • Equity: Employees should be treated fairly.
  • Stability of tenure of personnel: Employees should be allowed to keep their jobs as long as they perform well.
  • Initiative: Employees should be encouraged to take initiative.
  • Espirit de corps: Employees should be united in a common purpose.

What are the challenges of administration?

The challenges of administration include the following:

  • Managing a diverse workforce: Organizations today are increasingly diverse, which can make it difficult to manage employees from different backgrounds.
  • Dealing with change: Organizations are constantly changing, and administrators must be able to adapt to change.
  • Making decisions: Administrators must make decisions that are in the best interests of the organization.
  • Motivating employees: Administrators must motivate employees to achieve the organization’s goals.
  • Managing conflict: Conflict is inevitable in any organization, and administrators must be able to manage it effectively.

What are the benefits of administration?

The benefits of administration include the following:

  • Increased efficiency: Administration can help organizations to become more efficient by streamlining processes and eliminating waste.
  • Improved communication: Administration can help to improve communication within an organization by providing a clear chain of command and establishing communication channels.
  • Increased productivity: Administration can help organizations to become more productive by providing employees with the resources and support they need to do their jobs effectively.
  • Reduced costs: Administration can help organizations to reduce costs by identifying and eliminating waste.
  • Improved quality: Administration can help organizations to improve the quality of their products or services by establishing quality standards and monitoring performance.

What is the future of administration?

The future of administration is likely to be shaped by the following trends:

  • The rise of technology: Technology is changing the way that organizations operate, and administrators will need to be able to adapt to these changes.
  • The increasing importance of collaboration: In today’s global economy, organizations need to be able to collaborate effectively with partners and suppliers. Administrators will need to be able to foster collaboration and build relationships.
  • The focus on customer service: In today’s competitive marketplace, organizations need to focus on providing excellent customer service. Administrators will need to be able to develop and implement customer service strategies.
  • The need for innovation: In order to succeed in today’s economy, organizations need to be able to innovate. Administrators will need to be able to foster innovation and create an environment where new ideas can flourish.
  1. What is administration?
    (A) The process of managing and organizing resources to achieve a goal.
    (B) The process of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling an organization.
    (C) The process of coordinating the activities of a group of people to achieve a common goal.
    (D) All of the above.

  2. What is management?
    (A) The process of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling an organization.
    (B) The process of coordinating the activities of a group of people to achieve a common goal.
    (C) The process of managing and organizing resources to achieve a goal.
    (D) All of the above.

  3. What is the difference between administration and management?
    (A) Administration is the broader term, while management is a more specific term.
    (B) Administration is concerned with the overall goals of an organization, while management is concerned with the day-to-day operations of an organization.
    (C) Administration is concerned with the external environment of an organization, while management is concerned with the internal environment of an organization.
    (D) All of the above.

  4. What are the four functions of management?
    (A) Planning, organizing, directing, and controlling.
    (B) Analyzing, synthesizing, evaluating, and implementing.
    (C) Leading, motivating, coordinating, and controlling.
    (D) All of the above.

  5. What are the three types of organizational structure?
    (A) Functional, divisional, and matrix.
    (B) Centralized, decentralized, and hybrid.
    (C) Line, staff, and functional.
    (D) All of the above.

  6. What is the difference between a functional and a divisional organizational structure?
    (A) A functional organizational structure is based on the functions that need to be performed, while a divisional organizational structure is based on the products or services that are offered.
    (B) A functional organizational structure is centralized, while a divisional organizational structure is decentralized.
    (C) A functional organizational structure is bureaucratic, while a divisional organizational structure is flexible.
    (D) All of the above.

  7. What is the difference between a line and a staff position?
    (A) A line position is responsible for the direct accomplishment of the organization’s goals, while a staff position is responsible for providing support to the line positions.
    (B) A line position has authority over the staff positions, while a staff position does not have authority over the line positions.
    (C) A line position is more prestigious than a staff position.
    (D) All of the above.

  8. What is the difference between a centralized and a decentralized organizational structure?
    (A) In a centralized organizational structure, decision-making authority is concentrated at the top of the organization, while in a decentralized organizational structure, decision-making authority is delegated to lower levels of the organization.
    (B) In a centralized organizational structure, there is a clear hierarchy of authority, while in a decentralized organizational structure, there is a more fluid and flexible hierarchy of authority.
    (C) In a centralized organizational structure, communication is more formal and top-down, while in a decentralized organizational structure, communication is more informal and bottom-up.
    (D) All of the above.

  9. What is the difference between a bureaucratic and a flexible organizational structure?
    (A) A bureaucratic organizational structure is characterized by rules, regulations, and procedures, while a flexible organizational structure is characterized by adaptability and innovation.
    (B) A bureaucratic organizational structure is slow to change, while a flexible organizational structure is quick to change.
    (C) A bureaucratic organizational structure is more efficient, while a flexible organizational structure is more effective.
    (D) All of the above.

  10. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a functional organizational structure?
    (A) Advantages: Efficiency, coordination, and control. Disadvantages: Rigidity, slowness to change, and lack of innovation.
    (B) Advantages: Flexibility, adaptability, and innovation. Disadvantages: Inefficiency, lack of coordination, and difficulty in controlling.
    (C) Advantages: Efficiency, coordination, and control. Disadvantages: Rigidity, slowness to change, and lack of innovation.
    (D) Advantages: Flexibility, adaptability, and innovation. Disadvantages: Inefficiency, lack of coordination, and difficulty in controlling.