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What are the primary functions of management?

Author

Rachel Davis

Updated on December 27, 2025

Originally identified by Henri Fayol as five elements, there are now four commonly accepted functions of management that encompass these necessary skills: planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. 1 Consider what each of these functions entails, as well as how each may look in action.

What are the primary functions of planning in an organization?

Primary or Basic Function: Planning is the foundation on which all other managerial functions rest. It serves as a guide and framework for organizing, staffing, directing and controlling.

Why is planning called the primary functions of management?

Planning is called as the primary function of management because it is the first function to be performed in any organisation. It means thinking before doing anything. So it is the primary function as it is started before all the functions. And all other functions follow the planning function.

What is planning as a function of management?

Planning is the function of management that involves setting objectives and determining a course of action for achieving those objectives. Planning requires that managers be aware of environmental conditions facing their organization and forecast future conditions. Planning is a process consisting of several steps.

What are the 10 principles of planning?

Basic Principles of Planning:

  • Principle of Commitment:
  • Principle of the Limiting Factor:
  • Principle of Reflective Thinking:
  • Principle of Flexibility:
  • Principle of Contribution to Enterprise Objectives:
  • Principle of Efficiency:
  • Principle of Selection of Alternatives:
  • Principle of Planning Premises:

What are components of planning?

The entire process of planning consists of many aspects. These basically include missions, objectives, policies, procedures, programmes, budgets and strategies.