Swinburne University of Technology Faculty of Business and Law MGT10001 Introduction to Management Part B Answer only four (4) of the five (5) questions. For each chosen question write about 150 words clearly indicating which question is being answered. Each question is worth 5 marks. 1. Define four functions of management (Planning, Organising, Leading and Controlling) and briefly explain the importance of each of them in achieving organisational success. Answer · Planning involves setting goals and developing strategies for achieving those goals. Planning provides direction to managers, reduces uncertainty, anticipate problems and develop appropriate strategies, establishes goals or standards that are used in controlling. · Organising is the process of arranging people and other resources to work together to accomplish goals. It helps the organisation to allocate and develop resources, assign tasks and responsibilities to appropriate employees, establish line of authority and formalise activities. · Leading is influencing individuals and groups to achieve goals. Leaders are important to create the vision and motivate/influence employees to achieve goals/extraordinary outcomes. · Controlling is the process of monitoring, comparing and correcting work performances. Controlling is important due to following reasons. It ensures organisational activities are completed in ways that lead to the attainment of goals. Controlling is the only way that managers know whether organisational goals are being met and if not reasons why. 2. In a short essay, discuss the path-goal leadership theory developed by Robert House. Next, list and explain the four leadership behaviours based on the path-goal leadership theory. Path-goal theory is a contingency model of leadership. The theory says it is the leader's responsibility to assist his or her followers in attaining their goals and to provide the direction or support needed to ensure that their goals are compatible with the overall objectives of the group or organisation. According to this theory, a leader's behaviour is acceptable to group members to the degree that they view it as an immediate source of satisfaction or as a means of future satisfaction. A leader's behaviour is motivational to the extent that it makes the satisfaction of subordinates' needs contingent on effective performance and provides the coaching, guidance, support and rewards that are necessary for effective performance. To test these statements, House identified four leadership behaviours. 1. Directive leader - lets subordinates know what's expected of them, schedules work to be done and gives specific guidance on how to accomplish tasks. 2. Supportive leader - is friendly and shows concern for the needs of followers. 3. Participative leader - consults with group members and uses their suggestions before making a decision. 4. Achievement oriented leader - sets challenging goals and expects followers to perform at their highest level. Practice Exam Semester 2 - 2019 Page 1 of 3
Swinburne University of Technology Faculty of Business and Law MGT10001 Introduction to Management 3. Discuss current issues managers face in motivating employees and provide potential solutions. Answer · Motivating in tough economic circumstances · Managing cross-cultural work groups · Motivating unique groups of workers