(a)OR(b)

Explain the following principles of general management:

(i)

Division of work

(ii)

Authority and Responsibility

(iii)

Discipline

• (i) Division of work The principle of Division of work suggests that work can be performed more efficiently if it is divided into specialised tasks. The intent of division of work is to produce more and better • work for the same effort. A trained specialist who is competent, is required to perform each job leading to specialization which results in efficient and effective output. • (ii) Authority and Responsibility The principle of Authority and Responsibility suggests that managers require authority commensurate with their • responsibility. An organisation should build safeguards against abuse of managerial power. At the same time, a manager should have necessary authority to carry out his responsibility. • (iii) Discipline It is the obedience to organizational rules and employment agreement which are necessary for the working of the • organization. It requires good superiors at all levels, clear and fair agreement and judicious application of penalties.Significance of principles of management: • (i) Scientific decisions: Principles of management help in taking scientific decisions because the decisions based on principles are free from bias and prejudice and emphasise logic rather than blind faith. • $\displaystyle 25$ Scientific decisions based on principles are timely, realistic and subject to measurement and evaluation. They are based on the objective assessment of the situation. • (ii) Providing managers with insights into reality: Principles of management provide useful insights into reality by enabling the managers to learn from past mistakes and conserve time • by solving recurring problems quickly. Adherence to these principles adds to their knowledge, ability and understanding of managerial situations and circumstances thereby increasing managerial efficiency. • (iii) Meeting changing environment requirements: : Principles of management help the managers in meeting changing environment requirements because they can be modified according to the changes taking place in the • environment. As management principles are flexible, they are able to adapt to dynamic business environment.