What does 'planning' in management involve? *

Here are the answers to the questions:

3. What does 'planning' in management involve? Planning in management is the process of setting objectives and determining the best course of action for achieving those objectives. It involves looking ahead, anticipating future conditions, and deciding what needs to be done, when, and how.

   The correct option is c).

   • a) Deciding short-term goals is part of planning, but planning encompasses more than just short-term goals.
   • b) Managing employee salaries is a function of human resources, not the core of planning.
   • d) Supervising day-to-day tasks is part of the directing or controlling function of management.

   The correct answer is $\boxed{\text{c) Creating a roadmap for achieving the company's goals}}$

4. Who is responsible for implementing company goals at the department level? Different levels of management have distinct responsibilities. Top management sets overall strategic goals, while first-line management supervises daily operations. Middle management acts as a bridge, translating strategic goals into specific departmental plans and overseeing their implementation.

   The correct option is b).

   • a) Top management sets the overall strategic direction, not typically the implementation at the departmental level.
   • c) First-line management implements operational plans at the team or individual level, directly supervising non-managerial employees.
   • d) External consultants provide advice but are not typically responsible for internal implementation.

   The correct answer is $\boxed{\text{b) Middle management}}$

5. Which management level supervises employees directly? Management levels are typically categorized as top, middle, and first-line. First-line managers are at the lowest level of management and are directly responsible for overseeing the work of non-managerial employees.

   The correct option is c).

   • a) Top management focuses on overall organizational strategy and direction.
   • b) Middle management manages other managers and departments.
   • d) External consultants are outside the organization's direct management structure.

   The correct answer is $\boxed{\text{c) First-line management}}$