Question

Answer the following.

What is directing? Explain its importance.

Answer 1

Directing refers to the process or technique of instructing, guiding, communicating, inspiring, motivating, counselling, supervising and leading people towards the accomplishment of organisational goals. It is the soul of management function. A few philosophers called direction as "Life Spark of an Enterprise". According to Theo Haimann, "Direction consists of the process and techniques utilizing in issuing instructions and making certain that operations are carried out as planned."

The following points explain the importance of directing:

1) Initiates Action: Direction is the function which supports to activate the plans with the help of employees. The managers direct the subordinates regarding what to do, how to do, when to do and also to see that their instructions are properly followed. Every action is initiated through timely direction.

2) Integrates Efforts: One of the elements of direction is communication. Direction helps in integrating the efforts of all the employees and departments which results in achievement of organizational goal. Such integration can be achieved through persuasive leadership and effective communication.

3) Means of Motivation: Managers identify the potential and abilities of their subordinates and aid them to give their best. They also motivate employees by providing financial and non-financial incentives. While directing the subordinates, their opinions are also considered by managers. All of this boosts the morale of subordinates.

4) Provides Stability: Effective leadership, communication, supervision and motivation develop co-operation and commitment among the employees. It also creates balance among various departments and groups as well as provides stability. Such stability is crucial for the growth and survival of the organisation.

5) Coping up with the Changes:  Since the factors of business environment change continuously, adapting to such changes is necessary for the organisational growth. Motivation, proper communication, leadership enables the employees to understand the nature of changes and the positive outcomes associated with adopting the changes.

E.g.: e-filing, use of Robots at workplace etc.

6) Effective Utilization of Resources: Directing involves giving proper instructions and developing systems to avoid wastages, duplication of efforts etc. Managers provide guidance to subordinates so as to optimally utilize resources (men, machine, materials, and money) and avoid wastages. It helps in reducing costs and increasing profits.

7) Creates Team Spirit: Group efforts (team spirit) play more important role in the success of an organisation than individual efforts. Direction involves motivating the subordinates for group efforts. The role of manager as a director is crucial for motivating employees to achieve the set goals with their team.

8) Explores Capabilities of Individuals: All individuals have various capabilities in addition to their formal qualification. Direction helps to identify and utilize their abilities for best performance by encouraging and motivating subordinates, just like a leader. Directing to subordinates is a basic management function. It includes building effective work climate through motivation.

9) Increases Efficiency Level: Proper guidance and motivation enable subordinates to perform at their best level. Manager creates team spirit among employees. He also uses proper supervision techniques. All of this increases efficiency level of the organisation as a whole.

10) Co-operation: Co-operation is necessary for smooth flow or organizational activities. It should be created by managers (director from top level to the bottom level of management). Healthy co-operation, team work and higher efficiency level lead to attainment of goals.