We can begin to understand what these characteristics are by using different approaches to understanding what management is and what managers do. A. Defining Management. Management is the process of getting activities done efficiently with and through other people. The process includes the functions or primary activities performed by managers. Efficiency refers to the relationship between inputs and outputs and refers to efforts to minimize resource costs.
Effectiveness refers to goal attainment.
Managers seek to be both efficient and effective. B. Management Functions. These functions still provide the basis around which popular management textbooks are organized. However, the functions have been condensed to four. Planning includes defining goals, establishing strategy, and developing plans to coordinate activities.