Sagar Karamat. Mcow-F20-007 Final Exam of MGT
Sagar Karamat. Mcow-F20-007 Final Exam of MGT
1. Define the controlling function of management. Explain the four steps involved in controlling process.
2. What is corporate social responsibility (CSR)? Discuss the 4 types of corporate social responsibility, a
business can practice.
Question No # 1.
Answer:
Introduction:
Controlling consists of verifying whether everything occurs in conformities with the plans adopted,
instructions issued and principles established. Controlling ensures that there is effective and efficient utilization
of organizational resources so as to achieve the planned goals. Controlling measures the deviation of actual
performance from the standard performance, discovers the causes of such deviations and helps in taking
corrective actions.
Definition:
“Controlling is a systematic exercise which is called as a process of checking actual performance against the
standards or plans with a view to ensure adequate progress and also recording such experience as is gained as
a contribution to possible future needs.”
Controlling as a management function involves following
steps:
1. Establishment of standards
Standards are the plans or the targets which have to be achieved in the course of business function. They
can also be called as the criterions for judging the performance. Standards generally are classified into two-
a. Measurable or tangible - Those standards which can be measured and expressed are called as
measurable standards. They can be in form of cost, output, expenditure, time, profit, etc.
b. Non-measurable or intangible- There are standards which cannot be measured monetarily. For
example- performance of a manager, deviation of workers, their attitudes towards a concern. These
are called as intangible standards.
Controlling becomes easy through establishment of these standards because controlling is exercised on the
basis of these standards.
It is also sometimes done through various reports like weekly, monthly, quarterly, yearly reports.
3. Comparison of actual and standard performance- Comparison of actual performance with
the planned targets is very important. Deviation can be defined as the gap between actual performance
and the planned targets. The manager has to find out two things here- extent of deviation and cause of
deviation. Extent of deviation means that the manager has to find out whether the deviation is positive
or negative or whether the actual performance is in conformity with the planned performance. The
managers have to exercise control by exception. He has to find out those deviations which are critical
and important for business. Minor deviations have to be ignored. Major deviations like replacement of
machinery, appointment of workers, quality of raw material, rate of profits, etc. should be looked upon.
Therefore it is said, “If a manager controls everything, he ends up controlling nothing.” For example,
if stationery charges increase by a minor 5 to 10%, it can be called as a minor deviation. On the other
hand, if monthly production decreases continuously, it is called as major deviation.
Once the deviation is identified, a manager has to think about various cause which has led to deviation.
The causes can be-
a. Wrong planning,
b. Co-ordination loosens,
c. Implementation of plans is defective, and
d. Supervision and communication is ineffective, etc.
4. Taking remedial actions- Once the causes and extent of deviations are known, the manager has
to detect those errors and take remedial measures for it. There are two alternatives here-
a. Taking corrective measures for deviations which have occurred; and
b. After taking the corrective measures, if the actual performance is not in conformity with plans,
the manager can revise the targets. It is here the controlling process comes to an end. Follow
up is an important step because it is only through taking corrective measures, a manager can
exercise controlling.
These types of reports are prepared and used in large organizations. Reports are prepared in quantitative terms.
Then, the variations from standards are easily measured. In this way, control is exercised by the management.
A periodical report of sales volume is an example of statistical control reports.
Statistical analysis in the form of averages, percentages, ratios, correlation, etc., present useful information to
the managers regarding performance of the organization in various areas. Knowledge of statistics helps a
manager to describe the problem, identify and evaluate alternative courses of action, estimate error, monitor
processes and take appropriate corrective actions to achieve optimum results.
Such information when presented in the form of charts, graphs, tables, etc., enables the managers to read them
more easily and allow a comparison to be made with performance in previous periods and also with the
benchmarks.
Using this technique, the manager personally observes the operations in the work place. The manager corrects
the operations whenever the need arises. This is the oldest method of control. Employees work carefully to get
better performance. The reason is that they are personally observed by their supervisor. Personal observation
is a time-consuming technique and the supervisor does not have enough time to afford personal observation.
Personal observation technique is disliked by the honest and efficient employee. The observer may be biased
in performance evaluation.
Profit of any business depends upon the cost incurred to run a business. Profit is maximized by reducing the
cost of operation or production, so, the business concern gives much importance to the cost accounting and
cost control. Management uses a number of systems for determining the cost of products and services. The
cost accounting procedures and methods differ from one industry to another according to the nature of industry.
They are used for effective cost control and cost reduction.
Using this technique, the rate of profitability is identified by the management. The amount of profits earned
by the company is different from the rate of profitability of the company. The difference between the cost and
revenue is profit. The rate of profitability is the earning capacity of the company. Return on investments is
calculated by dividing the net profit with the total investment or capital employed in the business organization.
This technique is used to solve the problem which crops up once or a few times. It is not useful in tackling the
problems which come up continuously. The PERT was developed by Booz, Allen and Hamilton. They used
this technique in Polaris Submarine Project under the sponsorship of U.S. Navy. The PERT technique is very
useful for construction projects, publication of books etc.
This technique also follows the principle of PERT. The technique concentrates on cost rather than duration.
CPM assumes that duration of every activity is constant. Time estimate is made for each activity. CPM
technique was developed by a group of employees of DU de Nemours Company.
The production control technique is necessary for smooth functioning of an organization. Production control
involves planning of production, determination of stock level of raw materials, finished goods, selection of
process, selection of tools in production, etc. According to Spreigel, “Production control is the process of
planning in advance of operations, establishing the exact route of each individual item, part or assembly,
setting, starting and finishing dates for each important item, assembly and the finished product and releasing
the necessary orders as well as initiating the required follow up to effectuate the smooth functioning of the
enterprise.”
Relevant information is collected and transferred to all the persons who are responsible to take decisions. A
communication system is developed through which all levels of persons are informed about the growth of the
organization. Whenever the deviation is found, the corrective or control action is taken by the responsible
person.
The management information system emphasizes the need for adequate information in time for taking the best
decision. Thus, management information system helps the management in managerial decision-making by
giving the right information at the right time and in the right form.
Answer:
Introduction:
Corporate social responsibility, or CSR, refers to the belief that businesses have an obligation to society
beyond their commitments to their stockholders or investors. In addition to generating profits, companies are
expected to have some responsibility to stakeholders such as employees, customers, communities, and the
environment. CSR includes corporations being economically responsible, improving labor practices,
embracing fair trade, mitigating environmental damage, giving back to the community, and increasing
employee satisfaction.
This guide provides an overview of CSR. It is not intended to be comprehensive; rather, the goal of this
guide is to provide credible starting points for research, and to assist in further study of this topic.
“Corporate Social Responsibility is a management concept whereby companies integrate social and
environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with their stakeholders.”
There is no one "right" way companies can practice CSR; many corporate CSR initiatives strive to positively
contribute to the public, the economy or the environment. In today's socially sensible environment, employees
and customers place a superior on working for and spending their money with businesses that prioritize CSR.
As the use of corporate responsibility expands, it is becoming increasingly important to have a socially sensible
image. Consumers, employees and stakeholders prioritize CSR when choosing a brand or company, and they
are holding corporations accountable for effecting social change with their business beliefs, practices and
profits.
To illustrate how critical social responsibility has become, previous research by Cone Communications found
that more than 60% of Americans hope businesses will drive social and environmental change in the absence
of government regulation. Nearly 90% of the consumers surveyed said they would purchase a product because
a company supported an issue they care about. More importantly, nearly 75% said they would refuse to buy
from a company if they learned the company supported an issue contrary to their own beliefs.
Consumers aren't the only ones drawn to businesses that give back. Susan Cooney, head of global diversity,
equity and inclusion at Symantec, said that a company's sustainability strategy is a big factor in where today's
top talent chooses to work.
"The next generation of employees is seeking out employers that are focused on the triple bottom line: people,
planet and revenue," said Cooney. "Coming out of the recession, corporate revenue has been getting stronger.
Companies are encouraged to put that increased profit into programs that give back."
Schmidt also stated that sustainable development can help a business financially. For example, using less
packaging and less energy can reduce production costs.
1. Environmental efforts: One primary focus of CSR is the environment. ماحولBusinesses, regardless
of size, have large environmental risks. Any steps a company can take to reduce its risks/hazards is
considered good for both the company and society.
2. Philanthropy: Businesses can practice social responsibility by donating money, products or services to
social causes and nonprofits. Larger companies tend to have plentiful resources that can benefit charities
and local community programs; however, as a small business, your efforts can make a big difference. If
there is a specific charity or program you have in mind, reach out to the organization and ask them about
their specific needs and whether a donation of money, time or perhaps your company's products would
best help them.
3. Ethical labor practices: By treating employees fairly and ethically, companies can demonstrate CSR.
This is especially true of businesses that operate in international locations with labor laws that differ from
those in the United States.
4. Volunteering: Participating in local causes or volunteering your time (and your staff's time) in
community events says a lot about a company's sincerity. By doing good deeds without expecting anything
in return, companies can express their concern (and support) for specific issues and social causes.
"Even 5%, though it might not sound like a lot, can add up to make a difference," said Schmidt. "When thinking
of ways to donate and give back, start local, and then move from there."
When identifying and launching a CSR initiative, involve your employees in the decision-making process.
Create an internal team to spearhead the efforts and identify organizations or causes that may be somewhat
related to the business or that employees feel strongly about. Contributing to something your employees are
passionate about can increase engagement and success. Involving your employees in the decision-making
process can also bring clarity and assurance to your team.
"If decisions [about CSR] are made behind closed doors, people will wonder if there are strings attached and
if the donations are really going where they say," Cooney said. "Engage your employees [and consumers] in
giving back. Let them feel like they have a voice."
Regardless of which strategies you use for sustainable development, Boynton said it is important to be vocal.
Let your consumers know what you are doing to be socially conscious.
"Consumers deserve to share in the good feelings associated with doing the right thing, and many surveys have
found that consumers are inclined to purchase a sustainable product over a conventional alternative," she said.
"Announcing these benefits is a win-win from both a commercial and sustainability perspective."
Becoming a socially responsible business can be simple, though there are a few caveats.
First, businesses should avoid participating in charitable efforts that are not related to their core business focus
or that violate a company's ethical standards in any way. Instead of blindly sending money to a completely
unrelated organization, find a nonprofit that your company believes in or a project in your community.
Second, don't use CSR opportunities solely for marketing purposes. Schmidt said running a corporate
responsibility campaign as a quick marketing scheme can backfire if your business doesn't follow through.
Instead of employing a one-time act, you can adopt socially responsible business practices over time. Schmidt
said employees and consumers react positively to companies that embrace long-term social responsibility.
Last, if you are considering sustainable activities that aren't legally required yet, don't wait. By adopting
socially responsible norms early on, you set the bar for your industry and refine your process.
Undertaking CSR initiatives is a win for everyone involved. The impact of your actions will not only appeal
to socially conscious consumers and employees but can also make a real difference in the world.
These multinational corporations have changed the way how business operates. Their CSR strategies have
helped them build a name for themselves and contribute hugely to society.
IKEA
The Swedish-house multinational group that designs furniture has been actively involved to create safe places
for children in conflict zones. Their initiatives include –
Let’s Play for Change to enable children to “play and develop, even in the most difficult circumstances.”
Brighter Lives for Refugees for which they have donated “€30.8 million to help the UNHCR bring light and
renewable energy to refugee camps across Asia, Africa and Middle East.”
COCA-COLA
Coca Cola focuses on empowering young women entrepreneurs. Their #5by20 program aims to bring 5 million
women into the company as bottlers or distributors by 2020. Their other programs are centered around
providing clean drinking water and for the development of the disadvantaged youth.
LEVI’S
For Levi’s, just one thing matters- Is the jeans contributing to water scarcity? Since the inception of
their Water<Less program in 2011, they have saved more than 1 billion litres of water. They have reduced the
usage of water for manufacturing for some of their styles by 96 percent. They have also worked to support
people with HIV/AIDS and decrease their contribution to climate change.
LEGO
The toy company has invested millions of dollars into addressing climate change and reducing waste. Lego's
environmentally conscious efforts include reduced packaging, using sustainable materials and investing in
alternative energy. Although new to this field, Lego already ranks as number 1 on 2017 Global CSR RepTrak.
Lego’s aim is to use sustainable materials in all its products and packaging by 2030. They have decided to
manufacture some of their products from plant-based plastics this year.
Google is the world’s largest corporate buyer of renewable power. In 2017, they reached their target of 100
percent renewable energy in their data centers and offices. They also provide Google Ads Grants to nonprofits
to advertise for free using Google Ads.
MICROSOFT
Microsoft started its CSR initiatives back in 1983. Being in the game for a long time, they still rank as one of
the most “giving” organizations. Their Microsoft Philanthropies works with nonprofits, public and private
agencies to empower people as well as local communities.
But the most meaningful and timeless return to being socially responsible is the sheer joy and satisfaction that
comes with doing something good for the society. I think we all sleep better when we know we helped someone
smile today.
TOMS
TOMS donates one-third of its net profits to various charities that support physical and mental health as well
as educational opportunities. As of April 1, 2020, the brand is directing all charitable donations to the TOMS
COVID-19 Global Giving Fund.
Starbucks
The global coffee chain has implemented a socially responsible hiring process to diversify their workforce.
Their efforts are focused on hiring more veterans, young people looking to start their careers, and refugees.
Pfizer:
The pharmaceutical company's focus on "corporate citizenship" is reflected in its healthcare initiatives. Some
of the company's initiatives include spreading awareness about noninfectious diseases, and providing
accessible health services to women and children in need.
Deloitte says “organizations are no longer assessed based only on traditional metrics such as financial
performance, or even the quality of their products or services. They are increasingly judged…their impact on
society at large—transforming them from business enterprises into social enterprises.”
Moreover, a study shows that only 18 percent of organizations put social responsibility as a top priority, yet 77
percent say it’s “important”.
Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives benefit both the company as well as the environment (ecological
and social) in which they live in.
CSR requires employee assistance. Right from designing and developing the CSR program to actually
volunteering for a cause. So, when you include your employees in such important events, they feel valued and
appreciated. It helps improve your relationship with them, helps build the team’s dynamics and increases the
overall engagement level of the workforce.
People are giving to charitable organizations in high numbers. To attract customers and keep their loyalty,
corporations need to pay attention to what customers care about. If a customer feels like they are living out
their values by supporting a certain business, they are more likely to stick with the brand. They’ll feel a sense
of pride when buying from the business and are more likely to recommend it. Loyal customers are the best
marketing a company can get.
Customers care about a business’s part in social issues and they will be loyal to corporations they believe align
with their values. That means corporations that cater to these customers have a competitive edge over
companies that don’t. They might offer the same products and services, but the fact that they are making
corporate responsibility a priority makes them more appealing. Drawing that distinction is essential for
marketing purposes.
Research shows that employees of businesses that prioritize CSR are happier and more fulfilled. 80% of
employees report feeling more purpose when they believe their work makes a difference in the world. That
sense of purpose is essential to employee loyalty and dedication. When personally fulfilled, people are less
vulnerable to fatigue and stress. They’re also more likely to stay with the company.
Corporate responsibility is great for business in a few ways. One of them is that companies can charge more
for their products and services. A Nielsen Global Survey of Corporate Social Responsibility revealed that more
than half of the surveyed customers are willing to pay more if the company is committed to corporate
responsibility.
The generations that really care about social justice and social change will make up the majority of the
workforce. 66% of people surveyed in the Nielsen Global Survey of Corporate Social Responsibility prefer to
work for companies that prioritize corporate responsibility. By embracing that, a corporation can attract the
best employees and keep them, making the business stronger.
Making money has been the primary goal of “business as usual,” but corporate responsibility doesn’t mean a
company sacrifices profits. In fact, it can reduce costs. Since General Mills installed an energy monitoring
system, they’ve saved millions of dollars each year. While equipment can cost a company initially, it saves
money in the long-term. When reduced costs and higher-priced products are combined, companies can make
a very good profit by being socially responsible.
There are a lot of markets that haven’t been tapped into because traditional business thinking doesn’t see them
as “profitable.” With social activism on the brain, corporations can open new doors into neglected areas and
causes. In considering social impact as well as profit, corporations can find a balance and set themselves apart
from the crowd. Consumers will appreciate that a corporation is thinking about where it can help and not only
about profits.
Businesses, especially big corporations, can change society in significant ways. They have a lot of influence,
so they can not only raise awareness of issues, they can play an essential role in progress. Addressing climate
change is a prime example of where corporations can take charge. By taking responsibility for their impact,
corporations can help the world become a healthier, happier place.