IGCSE, A Level Business Student Forum

Analyse functions of a manager in a business. [8]

Answer for Planning:
KN: A unique function of a manager is planning, which involves setting objectives and determining the best course of action to achieve them. This is distinct as it provides direction and reduces uncertainty.

AN1: Effective planning requires analyzing market trends, forecasting future needs, and setting SMART goals. Poor planning leads to wasted resources and missed opportunities, while thorough planning ensures efficient resource use and aligns efforts with business objectives.

AN2: Managers must balance short-term operational plans with long-term strategic goals. For example, a detailed marketing plan may boost immediate sales, but a long-term innovation plan ensures sustained competitiveness. This highlights the importance of adaptability and foresight in planning.

AN3: This leads towards the conclusion that planning is foundational to business success. Managers who prioritize comprehensive and flexible plans create a roadmap for growth, enabling the organization to navigate challenges and seize opportunities effectively.

Answer for Leading:
KN: A unique function of a manager is leading, which involves guiding and inspiring employees to achieve organizational goals. This is distinct as it directly influences workplace culture and employee performance.

AN1: Effective leadership requires clear communication, empathy, and decision-making. Poor leadership leads to disengagement and high turnover, while strong leadership fosters teamwork, innovation, and high morale.

AN2: Managers must adapt their leadership style to suit different situations and employees. For example, a democratic style may encourage creativity, while an autocratic style may be needed in crises. This flexibility ensures employees feel valued and motivated.

AN3: This leads towards the understanding that leading is crucial for organizational success. Managers who inspire trust, communicate vision, and empower employees create a cohesive and high-performing team, driving the business toward its goals.

answer for coordinating
(KN) coordination is a crucial part of management as it helps ensure all tasks are done in accordance with achieving the main objective
(AN1) effective coordination leads to clear and consistent communication helping make sure all employees are on the same track enhancing teamwork
(AN2) the different departments and individuals are able to align together with the organization's objectives helping achieve the tasks much more effectively
(AN3) due to all employees being aware of the objective they feel more involved in the business increasing employee morale and thus higher efficiency and lower turnover rates
answer for controlling
(KN) controlling is a important part of management as it ensures the tasks and objectives are being met effectively and efficiently
(AN1) through control the manager is supervising different departments and keeping a check on how well the tasks are being managed and how the working method can be improved
(AN2) this helps create a sense of accountability amongst the employees leading to reduced slacking off and taking shortcuts, furthermore they are also recognized back of thus boosting employee morale
(AN3) because of this corrective action being taken where needed helps to further improve the organization's productivity level by reallocating resources or revising goals creating a loop of continuous improvement

Answer for Decision Making:

(KN) An important function of the manager is decision-making so the business can achieve business goals.
(AN1) For instance, a manager of a retail company must choose price tactics based on competition and market trends. Setting the ideal price can increase sales and draw in clients.
(AN2) Making sensible decisions guarantees that opportunities are taken advantage of, risks are reduced, and resources are employed effectively. Poor choices, on the other hand, such as setting prices too high or too cheap, can result in lower sales, losses, and a bad reputation for the company.
(AN3) To boost production efficiency in a manufacturing organization, management may have to choose whether to invest in automation. Costs, rewards, and long-term company growth must all be considered while making this choice.

Answer for Monitoring Performance

(KN) Another essential function is monitoring performance, which involves tracking employee and business performance to ensure targets are met in the due time
(AN1) For instance, a manager at a retail establishment would monitor daily sales data and contrast it with predetermined goals. The manager can look into factors like inadequate promotion, low foot traffic, or subpar employee performance if sales are below projections.
(AN2) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), such as the quantity of units produced per hour or defect rates, are used by managers in manufacturing companies to gauge production efficiency. Corrective measures, such as more training or equipment maintenance, can be put in place if performance declines.
(AN3) To guarantee service quality, supervisors in a customer service organization may keep an eye on call response times and client feedback. The management may change staff responsibilities or improve training if complaints rise.