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Directing is the proôess of initiating action according to some plan It is the process of
guiding, supervising, motivating, leading and influencing people for accomplishment
of organisational objectives.
According to Haimann, “Directing consists of the processes and techniques utilised
in issuing instructions and making certain that operations are carried on as originally
planned.”
CharacteristicsfFeatures of Direction
The nature or function of directing has been discussed in the following
features/chameteristics:
I. A function of management : Directing is one of the most important functions of
management. Marshall Dimock calls it the ‘heart of administration (management)’. In
fact, it is an indispensable function of management because it is concerned with
initiating, mobilising, influerAcing and integrating human resource of the
organisation.
9. Core of human relations Directing is the core of human relations at work. It deals
with interpersonal human relationships at work. Therefore,sometimes, it is also
referred as the ‘people’ furcion of management. It involves the study and influencing
the human behaviour and relations
Importance of Direction
1. To get the things done Directing is essential to get the things done through
others: Without proper guidance instructions, supervision, motivation, no manager
can get the things done as per plans. Theo Haimann has rightly observed that “nothing
happens until an’t unless the car is put into gear and accelerator depressed. Without
the issuance of directives, without guiding and overseeing subordinates, nothing or at
best very little would be accomplished.”
3. To execute plans and decisions : In order to execute plans and decisions, directing
is essential. Without effective directing, no plan or decisions can be effectively
executed. Faulty directing can nullify the effects of best plans and”sound decisions.
10. Stability and growth of the enterprise: Effective directing means effective
supervision, communication, motivation and leadership. These all contribute to tht
growth and stability of the enterprise.
Principles of Direction
Following are some of the basic principles of directing:
1. Principle of directing objective : This principle states that subordinates should be
given clear understanding the objective of directing. Moreover, subordinates should
also be made known of their roles in accomplishing the objectives.
4. Principle of direct supervision : This principle states that managers should, as far
as possible, ensure direct supervision. Moreover, objective methods of supervision
should be supplemented by direct personal supervision. [Koontz. and O’DonnellJ
Through direct supervision, superiors can better communicate with other
subordinates. Moreover, they can view the problems first-hand and receive
suggestions from the subordinates immediately.
5. The principle of leadership style : This principle states that effective leadership is
essential to effective directing. Therefore, managers should adopt an appropriate style
of leadership to ensure effectiveness of direction. Managers should vary the
leadership style appropriately. The leadership style that is effective for one
environment may not be effective for another environment. Hence, manager should
adopt an appropriate style in order to illicit desired response from the subordinates.
6. Principle of communication : This principle states that sound two-way direct
communication system should be maintained to ensure effectiveness of directing. It
will, provide free flow of , information, suggestions, complaints and
grievances between superior and his subordinates.
9. Principle of participation: This pthciple states that directing can be more effective if
manager ensures participation of his subordinates in the process of directing.
Therefore, a manager should solicit and consider ideas, opinions, views and
suggestions of the subordinates before directions are issued.
10. Principle of informal relations : This principle requires that for effective directing,
a manager should develop’ informal relations with his subordinates. A manager
should, therefore, promote and recognise informal groups and their leaders. Informal
relations can increase the effectiveness of directing because it is easier to secure
cooperation of people through such relations.
11. Principle of appropriate techniques : This principle states that a manager should
select and use appropriate techniques of directing. The selection of techniques should
be based on the nature of task and the prevailing situation. The technique of
supervision should be appropriate to the person supervised and the task performed.
12. Principle of follow-up : This principle requires that a manage: should follow-up
the directing process and make necessary changes wherever necessary. It means that
directing is a never-ending process. Involves constant coaching, counselling, advice,
supervision and helping the subordinates in their respective activities.
Characteristics/Nature:
Following characteristics of motivation highlight the nature of
motivation:
1.MotätiOn is internal feeling: Motivation is internal feeling of an individual. It points
out the energising forces within an individual that direct or influence him to behave in
a particular way.
2. Continuous process : Motivation is a continuous or never ending process It is so
because human needs, desires, wants or wishes are endless. All of them can iever be
satisfied simultaneously. Satisfaction of one need gives size to another need.
Therefore, motivation process goes on forever.
5. A way to direct and explain behaviour: Motviation refers to the way in which
urges, drives, desires, inspirations or needs direct and explain the behaviour of human
beings. It is the psychological process that gives behaviour, purpose and direction.