Fayol’s management functions
Fayol’s traditional management functions are planning, organising, commanding, coordinating and controlling. They describe related responsibilities rather than a rigid sequence carried out once. Managers decide objectives and action, arrange work and resources, direct effort, align activities and compare results with intentions. Modern descriptions may use leading or directing instead of commanding, but the historic model’s terminology should remain clear.
Worked example
A manager plans a service launch, assigns responsibilities and resources, explains tasks, coordinates work across teams and reviews results against the plan. Problems found during review can require a revised plan.
Common mistake
Do not confuse Fayol’s functional account of management with Mintzberg’s managerial roles. Nor assume controlling means only issuing instructions or punishing staff.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |