Some months ago I wrote an article outlining the basic managerial functions: PLANNING, ORGANIZING, LEADING and CONTROLLING. However, I introduced two more to the list: INFORMING, and ENHANCING. All together, these functions can be remembered as a simple acronym: POLICE.
Almost every management textbook will cite the four, POLC, functions. However, aside from being easier to remember, a good case can be made for the additional two (I,E), to make a more complete array of management of managerial tasks and responsibilities. While some academicians and consultants may object to this tinkering with tradition, others may welcome the change. For business students, the new model may be an easier one to memorize and understand. Also, there is already a certain amount of overlap between the basic functions, and whatever the model is, it is there to help us comprehend, remember, and practice these elements in our management roles.
PLOC with I & E added
informing
Management has evolved significantly over the past several decades. There is far more emphasis on communication as companies have become less authoritarian, and as organizational complexity has increased. Technology has also had an impact, although, by far the greatest influence has resulted from societal change. Modern employees ask "WHY" and expect to understand the rationale for tasks and responsibilities. They also want to know more about the organizational mission, and the part they play in achieving it. So managers, more than ever, have a responsibility to inform and be informed. This informing/communicating responsibility is a major and essential task. Now some may say this is a part of leading, and you will find no argument here. However, because of the necessity of communication and the need for information (i.e., being informed) this function warrants its own identity.
enhancing
Managers are no longer expected to be merely additive to the organization Their presence is expected to be synergistic and have a multiplier effect. While, it could be argued that enhancing is also a part of leadership, it is significant enough to have its own distinct designation.
If managers are required to enhance the organization through their style and initiatives, the organization will constantly evolve into a better place. Enhancement implies "raising" "heightening," "increasing value", and/or "improving quality, desirability, or attractiveness" (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary).
Certainly this is a primary responsibility for managers.
Altogether: POLICE
Your management role is to be a policeman. You are, in fact, responsible for the safety and security of your stakeholders. The stockholders, the executive team, employees and the organization are all components of your business community. Part of your role is to detect "crime" and apprehend wrongdoers This may mean identifying those who cheat the company through ineptness, laziness or sabotage. It means enforcing the rules, and that you discover and take action to rectify problems with suppliers, customers, etc. It means that you must recognize threats to the safety of your company from the competition, and other external or internal sources. It means you must weed out inefficiencies and cost overruns. It means that you must constantly POLICE your organization, and be vigilant, proactive, well-trained and disciplined. The police also have a service role. They are there to help you in time of need. When your car breaks down, when you need directions, when you feel endangered.
So remember that, as a manager, you are the POLICE. Your responsibilities are to perform each of your functions effectively: You will PLAN, ORGANIZE, LEAD, INFORM, CONTROL, and ENHANCE. You will protect your employer, your employees, your organization and yourself. And, you will be of service to the extent of your capabilities. As a result of your efforts your organization and all associated with it will benefit.
As a Manager, You Are the POLICE
Copyright © 2008, Dr. Ben A. Carlsen, MBA. All Rights Reserved Worldwide for all Media. You may reprint this article in your ezine, newsletter, newspaper, magazine, website, etc. as long as you leave all of the links active, do not edit the article in any way, leave my name and bio box intact, and you follow all of the EzineArticles Terms of Service for Publishers.
Ben A. Carlsen, Ed.D, MBA, is an experienced CEO and manager. Dr. Carlsen has over 30 years experience in management, consulting, and teaching. Currently the Head of the Business Department at Everest Institute, Hialeah, FL., he was Chairman of the Los Angeles County Productivity Managers Network and President of the Association for Systems Management (So. Calif. Chapter). Additional information can be obtained at http://drben.info
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