General Education Development (GED) Practice Exam

According to Fayol's Administrative Theory, what is one of the essential functions of management?

1. Controlling

2. Composing

3. Implementing

4. Coordinating

The correct answer is: Controlling

In Fayol's Administrative Theory, one of the essential functions of management is controlling. This function involves ensuring that the organization’s goals are met by monitoring performance and making necessary adjustments. It is a critical aspect of management because it helps to verify that all activities are proceeding as planned. Controlling encompasses various activities, such as setting performance standards, measuring actual performance, and taking corrective action when necessary. By analyzing the output of processes, management can assess whether organizational objectives are being achieved efficiently and effectively. This feedback loop is vital for maintaining operational effectiveness and achieving long-term success. The other functions, although important, do not capture the essence of what control entails in Fayol’s framework. For example, composing does not relate to the core managerial activities as outlined by Fayol. Implementing may refer to the execution of plans but does not encapsulate the ongoing evaluation that controlling involves. Coordinating is also important as it ensures different departments and personnel work together effectively, but it primarily focuses on alignment rather than oversight and correction, which are key components of controlling.