The Planning Function of Management

The Planning Function of Management

Cortnie Childers

MGT/330

August 10, 2010
Scott Smith

The Planning Function of Management

“He who fails to plan, plans to fail.” (Thinkexist.com, 1999-2010). Planning is the first step an organization takes when pursuing a goal. With the goal in mind one must layout the business plan that will allow the organization and everyone involved to reach the goal. The plan will include activities delegated to individuals, groups, or the overall organization that will be used as a tool in reaching the goal. When a company begins planning it is important to “analyze current situations, anticipate the future, and determine the objectives.” (Bateman & Snell, 2009). Lots of thought and decision making goes into deciding what activities the company will choose followed by business strategies. The company must know the resources needed to reach the organizations goal.
    Within the company of Sports Authority, the executives will send reports to all stores stating their numbers in all categories. There is always a requirement of where each store should be and there is always room for improvement. In this case, it’s up to the store managers of each location to prepare a business plan that will show the executives a goal has been set and an action plan is in progress. The plan begins by researching and gathering ideas of how to reach this goal. Ideas from managers, employees, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are all a part of the planning process. In order to have a strong and successful plan it is smart to look at the customers and employees since those are who run the floors and keep the company alive.
    When evaluating the planning function of management it is necessary to look at many sides of the planning process. It’s important to be aware of legal issues, ethics, and the social responsibility that challenge the plan making. Influences such as strategic planning, tactical planning, operational planning, and...