DIRECTING

Direction is instructing the subordinates to follow a certain process to attain a give objectives. It is getting the work done through instructions and orders. It is the function of diversion in the management process to get the work from the subordinates by means of guiding, motivation, communication, supervising, leading and if need be commanding.

It is sum of total of managerial efforts that is applied for guiding and inspiring the working teams to make better accomplishments in the organization.

It is the heart and soul of management.

Process of Direction

1.                  Defining the objectives.

2.                  Organizing the efforts.

3.                  Measuring the work.

4.                  Developing the people.

Ever manager in the organization gives direction to his subordinates as superior and receives direction s subordinate from his superior.

Direction may be defined as the function of management which is related with instructing, guiding and inspiring human factor in the organization to achieve organization objective. The direction is not merely issuing orders and instructions by a superior to his subordinates, but is includes the process of guiding and inspiring them. The analysis of definition reveals that direction function consist of three elements.

-           Motivation

-           Leadership

-           Communication

Direction has the following characteristics

-           Direction is an important managerial function. Through direction management can initiates actions in the organization.

-           Direction function is performed at every level of management.

-           Direction is a continuous process and it continuous through out the life of the organization.

-           Direction initiates at the top level in the organization follows and bottom through there hierarchy. It emphasizes that a subordinates is to be directed by his own superior only.

Importance of direction

The importance of direction function in the organization can be presented as follows.

-           Direction initiates action.

-           Direction integrates employees efforts.

-           Direction attempts to get maximum out of individuals.

-           Direction facilitates charges in the organization.

-           Direction provides stability and balance in the organization.

Principles of direction

Direction is one of the most complex function of the management as it ideals with people whose nature itself is quite complex and unpredictable.

1.         Principles of relating to the purpose of directing

a.       Principles of maximum individual contribution.

b.      Principle of harmony of objectives.

c.       Principle of efficiency of direction.

2.         Principle relating to direction process:

a.                   Principle of unity of command.

b.                  Principle of appropriateness of direction technique.

c.                   Principle of managerial communication.

d.                  Principle of comprehension.

e.                   Principle of use of informal organization.

f.                   Principle of leadership.

g.                  Principle of follow through.

Thus one of the basics functions of management is direction. Direction means the use of leadership and motivation to guide the performance of subordinates towards the achievement of the organization’s goals. Important requirements for effective direction are : Harmony of objectives, Unity of command, direct supervision, efficient communication and follow-up.