ABSTRACT

Management is predicated upon a belief that an enterprise can only run efficiently if there is central planning and control by a unit 'independent' of the frontline staff. Management cannot be regarded as a profession because it does not fulfil the criteria of a profession. General management is separated into three major functions: policy formulation, operational or line activities and support or staff activities. Management has authority without direct line responsibility; it produces nothing yet seeks to dominate those who do. Managers do not work in a predictable enough manner for their work to be treated as a science by unbiased observers. Managerial tasks are perceived as organizing and supervising the work of others and supplying ideas and information. The main task appears to be 'information gathering' and, hence, it is characterized by: a lack of schedule, not much desk work and fleeting contacts.