Planning Fundamentals

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of standing plans in an organization?

To outline short-term objectives exclusively

To guide single-use projects

To manage irregular activities

To ensure routine decision-making efficiency (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a type of standing plan?

Projects (correct)

Rules

Policies

Procedures

What distinguishes projects from programmes according to their characteristics?

Level of complexity (correct)

Nature of activities

Duration they cover

Type of budget allocated

What is a characteristic feature of a budget?

It is a plan for future expenses, revenue, and income Signup and view all the answers

How are policies defined in the context of standing plans?

General guidelines for organizational responses Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes objectives in an organization?

End results that the management aims to achieve Signup and view all the answers

What type of plan is primarily developed once but modified as needed over time?

Standing plan Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes procedures in the context of management?

Steps to be followed in specific circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of a single-use plan?

It is designed for non-recurring situations. Signup and view all the answers

What step involves putting the plan into action?

Implementing the plan. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a component of a single-use plan?

Budget details. Signup and view all the answers

How are different managerial functions related to the planning process?

They may be involved during the implementation phase. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor in selecting a viable alternative?

The manager's experience and judgment. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the follow-up action step in planning?

It focuses on confirming plan implementation. Signup and view all the answers

What might necessitate the need for more resources, such as labor or machinery, according to the planning process?

Implementing a new plan. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of planning, what role do permutations and combinations play?

They assist in selecting the best course of action. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the planning process?

Setting objectives Signup and view all the answers

Which stage involves weighing the pros and cons of each alternative in the planning process?

Evaluating alternative courses Signup and view all the answers

What involves putting the selected plan into action?

Implement the plan Signup and view all the answers

In the planning process, what comes after selecting an alternative?

Implement the plan Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in the planning process?

Reviewing past performances Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the general guidelines that guide decision-making in the planning process?

Policies Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of the planning process requires making assumptions about future events?

Developing premises Signup and view all the answers

What does a strategy in the planning context primarily define?

The overall direction and scope of the organization Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Planning

Planning is the process of setting objectives, developing premises, identifying alternatives, evaluating alternatives, selecting alternatives, implementing the plan, and following up on the plan.
The process of planning involves making decisions about the future.
It is important to consider the potential risks and opportunities when making these decisions.
Planners must anticipate future conditions and develop contingency plans.
There are many different types of plans.
Some plans are single-use plans, while others are standing plans.
Single-use plans are used for one-time events or projects.
Standing plans are used for activities that occur regularly over a period of time.
Standing plans include policies, procedures, methods, and rules.
Objectives are the desired future position that the management would like to reach.
Strategy provides the broad contours of an organization's business.
Policies are general statements that guide thinking or channelise energies towards a particular direction.
Procedures are routine steps on how to carry out activities.
Rules are specific statements that tell what is to be done.

Types of Plans

Single-Use Plan: Developed for one-time events, not recurring situations. Examples: budgets, programmes, projects.
Standing Plan: Used for recurring activities, helps with routine decision-making. Examples: policies, procedures, methods, and rules
- Policies: General guidelines for responses to situations.
- Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for specific circumstances.
- Methods: Detailed instructions for completing tasks.
- Rules: Specific instructions for what to do or not do.

Limitations of Planning

Planning can lead to rigidity.
It can reduce creativity.
It involves high costs.
It is a time-consuming process.
Planning may not be effective in a dynamic environment.
Planning does not guarantee success.

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Description

Explore the key concepts of planning, including setting objectives, evaluating alternatives, and implementing strategies. This quiz will help you understand the different types of plans, such as single-use and standing plans, and the importance of policies and procedures in effective management. Test your knowledge on the planning process and its components.