Question

"Management is the process of working with and through others to effectively achieve organizational objectives by efficiently using limited resources in the changing environment". Who gave this definition of management?

• A. Hicks
• B. Henry Fayol
• C. Kreitner
• D. Koontz

Hint:

To identify Kreitner's definition in exams, look for the keywords "limited resources" and "changing environment." Most older classical definitions don't emphasize the environmental context as much as he does.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Definitions of management vary based on the focus of the author. While some emphasize the functions (Fayol) or the interpersonal aspect (Koontz), Robert Kreitner's definition is known for its comprehensive approach, linking several key elements together.

Step 1: Breaking down the definition.
Kreitner’s definition is unique because it combines four specific elements:
• Working with and through others: The social/interpersonal aspect.
• Achieving organizational objectives: The goal-oriented aspect.
• Effectiveness and Efficiency: The performance aspect (doing the right things and doing them well).
• Limited resources in a changing environment: The situational and economic aspect.

Step 2: Differentiating from other authors.

• Henry Fayol: Defined management through its functions (to forecast, plan, organize, command, coordinate, and control).
• Harold Koontz: Famously defined management as "the art of getting things done through and with people in formally organized groups."
• Robert Kreitner: Added the modern emphasis on "limited resources" and the "changing environment."

Step 3: Conclusion.
The phrasing in the prompt explicitly matches the modern, comprehensive definition provided by Robert Kreitner. This corresponds to option (C).