Question

Explain the following features of planning function of management :
(i) Planning is a mental exercise
(ii) Planning involves decision making
(iii) Planning is futuristic

Hint:

Planning is "Goal-Oriented." You don't plan just for the sake of it; you plan to achieve something specific in the future.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Planning is the process of thinking before doing. It is a bridge between where we are today and where we want to reach in the future.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Planning is a Mental Exercise: Planning requires application of the mind, involving foresight, intelligent imagination, and sound judgment. It is an intellectual activity of thinking rather than doing. It requires logical and systematic thinking rather than guesswork.
2. Planning Involves Decision Making: Planning is required only when different alternatives are available. If there is only one possible course of action, there is no need for planning. It involves evaluating various alternatives and choosing the most appropriate one.
3. Planning is Futuristic: Planning essentially involves looking ahead and preparing for the future. Its purpose is to meet future events effectively to the best advantage of an organization. It is based on forecasting future conditions and events.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The features of planning emphasize that it is a thinking process, involves choice among options, and is always directed toward the future.