What is Management?

• A. Getting things done through others.
• B. The process of evaluating organizational culture.
• C. A method for market analysis.
• D. A theory of decision making under ambiguity.

Answer: (A)

Management is the process of coordinating and directing the work of others to achieve organizational goals. Getting things done through others is what management is about, since a manager guides people, allocates tasks, motivates, and monitors progress to reach objectives, using planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. The other options describe different areas: evaluating organizational culture is about understanding values and norms inside the company; a method for market analysis is about assessing external market conditions; a theory of decision making under ambiguity concerns how decisions are made when information is uncertain. In short, management is the practical act of mobilizing people to execute plans and reach objectives.