Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Coordination is the process by which a manager synchronizes the activities of different departments to ensure that organizational goals are achieved efficiently. It is often called the "essence of management."
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Integrates Group Efforts: Coordination unifies unrelated or diverse interests into purposeful work activity, ensuring that the performance is according to plan.
2. Ensures Unity of Action: It acts as the binding force between departments and ensures that all efforts are focused on achieving organizational goals.
3. Continuous Process: Coordination is not a one-time function but a continuous process that begins at the planning stage and continues until controlling.
4. All-pervasive Function: It is required at all levels of management and in all departments due to the interdependence of activities.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The four features are integration of efforts, unity of action, continuity, and pervasiveness.