Lesson 5: Planning (Theories and Approaches) Flashcards
As per the University of Nairobi Department of Civil and Construction Engineering, __________ is the basic function of management. It deals with chalking out a future course of action & deciding in advance the most appropriate course of actions for achievement of pre-determined goals. It bridges the gap from where we are and where we
want to be.
Planning
_______, according to Nickels and others, refers to “The management function that involves anticipating future trends and determining the best strategies and tactics to achieve organizational objectives.”
Planning
Aldag and Stearns, define ________ as “the selection and sequential ordering of tasks required to achieve an organizational goal.”
planning
Theories of Planning
This theory emphasizes a structured approach to planning and management, focusing on hierarchy, formal rules, and efficiency. Planning is viewed as a rational process where managers set goals, develop plans, and allocate
resources to achieve efficiency and productivity.
Classical Theory
Theories of Planning
views organizations as interconnected systems composed of various components that work together to achieve overall objectives. In planning, it encourages a holistic perspective, where managers consider how changes in one area can impact the entire system.
Systems Theory
Theories of Planning
posits that effective management and planning depend on the specific context of the organization, with no single best way to manage. This theory asserts that the optimal course of action varies based on internal and external circumstances, such as the organization’s size, culture, technology, and market conditions.
Contingency Theory
Theories of Planning
emphasizes the human aspects of management, focusing on the behaviors, motivations, and interactions of individuals and groups within an organization. This theory highlights the significance of understanding employee needs and dynamics in the planning process.
Behavioral Theory
APPROACHES TO PLANNING
A senior management or project leaders define the overall goals, objectives, and strategies. These high-level plans are then broken down into smaller tasks and distributed to the engineering teams for execution.
Top-Down
APPROACHES TO PLANNING
Engineers and technical staff play a more active role in creating the project plan. Ideas and inputs are gathered from those who have direct knowledge and these are gradually integrated into a larger, cohesive plan.
Bottom-Up
APPROACHES TO PLANNING
Involve analyzing competitive opportunities and threats, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the organization, and then determining how to position the organization to compete effectively in their environment.
Strategic
APPROACHES TO PLANNING
Is intermediate-range (one to three years) planning that is designed to develop relatively concrete and specific means to implement the strategic plan.
Tactical
APPROACHES TO PLANNING
Emphasizes gradual, step-by-step improvements or changes. In engineering management, this could mean focusing on smaller, manageable tasks that provide continuous value over time rather than undertaking major changes all at once.
Incremental
APPROACHES TO PLANNING
Is more broad and often involves tackling multiple aspects of a project or process in a single, all-encompassing change. This approach is often used when a significant transformation is needed.
Comprehensive
PLANNING PROCESS
A standard may be defined as “a quantitative or qualitative measuring device designed to help monitor the performances of people, capital goods or processes.”
Setting goals
PLANNING PROCESS
In engineering management involves translating the strategic plan into actionable steps. This stage ensures that the project goals and objectives set during the planning phase are executed effectively.
Reviewing
