Question

Consider the following statements Concerning Fayol's Elements of Administration (POCCC):

I. Planning (Prevoir) involves formulating an action plan characterized by strict adherence to predefined, inflexible methods.

II. Command is the function focused solely on maintaining activity among top-level managerial personnel.

III. Coordination involves unifying and harmonizing all activities and efforts within the undertaking.

Which of the following is correct?

• A. I only
• B. I and III only
• C. III only
• D. I, II, and III

Answer 1

Answer:

C. III only

Henri Fayol's Principles of Administration

Henri Fayol, a French mining engineer and director, is considered one of the most influential figures in the field of management theory. His work, particularly his book Administration Industrielle et Générale (General and Industrial Management), published in 1916, introduced a framework for understanding and practicing effective administration.

Fayol's 14 Principles of Management

Fayol identified 14 principles of management that he believed were universally applicable. These principles guide managers in organizing and leading their organizations. Some of these principles are related to the functions of management he outlined.

Fayol's Functions of Management (POCCC)

Fayol also described five primary functions of management, often remembered by the acronym POCCC:

• Planning (Prevoir): This involves looking ahead and formulating a plan of action. A good plan is one that is characterized by flexibility and adaptability, not strict adherence to inflexible methods. It sets objectives and outlines the steps to achieve them.
• Organizing (Organiser): This involves building the organizational structure and staffing it with qualified personnel to carry out the planned activities.
• Commanding (Commander): This function is about directing and motivating subordinates to perform their duties effectively. It involves interacting with employees to ensure that the organization's objectives are met.
• Coordinating (Coordonner): This is a crucial function that involves unifying and harmonizing all the diverse activities and efforts within the organization to ensure that they work together smoothly towards common goals. It prevents conflicts and duplication of efforts.
• Controlling (Contrôler): This involves monitoring the performance of the organization and its employees to ensure that activities are carried out in accordance with the plan and to take corrective actions if necessary.

Analysis of the Statements:

• Statement I (Planning): This statement incorrectly characterizes planning as involving strict adherence to predefined, inflexible methods. Effective planning, according to Fayol, should be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances.
• Statement II (Command): This statement inaccurately limits the function of command to only top-level managerial personnel. Command involves directing and motivating all subordinates, irrespective of their level in the hierarchy.
• Statement III (Coordination): This statement accurately describes coordination as the process of unifying and harmonizing all activities and efforts within an undertaking. This is a core aspect of Fayol's concept of coordination.

Exam Relevance:

Understanding Fayol's principles and functions of management is fundamental for various competitive examinations, particularly those focusing on management, public administration, and business studies. Questions often test the ability to distinguish between these functions and their correct interpretations as proposed by Fayol. It's important to remember the nuances of each principle and function, such as the emphasis on flexibility in planning and the broad application of command.