Question 1

The four steps of the control process are: establish performance objectives and standards; measure actual performance; compare actual performance with objectives and standards; and __________.

Accepted Answer

The fourth step in the control process, after establishing performance objectives and standards, measuring actual performance, and comparing actual performance with objectives and standards, is to take corrective action as needed. This step is crucial for addressing any discrepancies between actual performance and the set objectives and standards.

Question 2

The purpose of controlling is to:

Accepted Answer

Controlling involves monitoring performance, comparing it with goals, and taking corrective action as needed to ensure that objectives are achieved.

Question 3

Suppose that, in reviewing a quarterly report of a department's achievements, the manager compared desired performance with actual performance. If the manager found that actual performance was LESS than the standard, the manager should:

Accepted Answer

The manager should take corrective action to address the discrepancy between desired and actual performance to improve future outcomes.

Question 4

In using a relative approach to compare desired and actual performance, a manager will:

Accepted Answer

A relative approach involves comparing performance against the achievements of others, such as peers or competitors, to set the standard.

Question 5

Suppose that, in reviewing a quarterly report of a department's achievements, the manager compared desired performance with actual performance. If the manager found that actual performance was GREATER than the standard, the manager should:

Accepted Answer

The answer of Suppose that, in reviewing a quarterly report...

Question 6

In using an engineering approach to compare desired and actual performance, a manager will:

Accepted Answer

An engineering approach involves setting standards scientifically, often using methods like time and motion studies to determine the most efficient way to perform a task.

Question 7

A management exception known as the __________ occurs when actual performance is below standard.

Accepted Answer

The management exception referred to is the "problem situation," which occurs when actual performance falls below the set standard, indicating an issue that needs management attention.

Question 8

__________ standards measure effort in terms of the amount of work expended in task performance.

Accepted Answer

Input standards focus on the amount of work or effort that goes into performing a task, rather than the results or outcomes of that effort.

Question 9

Which of the following is the definition of controlling found in the textbook?

Accepted Answer

Controlling, as defined in management textbooks, involves measuring performance against established goals and taking corrective actions to ensure that desired outcomes are achieved. This definition encompasses a broad range of activities beyond just financial results or specific issues like employee behavior or inventory management.

Question 10

Which of the following is an accurate description of the control equation?

Accepted Answer

The control equation is typically described as the need for action being the difference between desired performance and actual performance.

Question 11

The unwillingness or inability to measure the performance of people at work:

Accepted Answer

Measuring actual performance is a common management challenge, as it requires objective assessment and can be hindered by various factors such as lack of clear metrics, biases, or inadequate systems.

Question 12

In using a historical approach for comparing desired and actual performance, a manager will:

Accepted Answer

Using a historical approach for comparing desired and actual performance involves looking at past performance as a benchmark. This means evaluating current performance against how things were done previously to identify improvements or declines.

Question 13

The word 'control' must be used carefully because:

Accepted Answer

The word 'control' can have a negative connotation, implying restriction or domination, which is why it must be used carefully in a managerial context.

Question 14

Suppose that, in reviewing a quarterly report of a department's achievements, the manager compared desired performance with actual performance. If the manager found no deviation (that is, actual performance was EQUAL to the standard), the manager should:

Accepted Answer

Since actual performance met the desired standard, there is no deviation requiring corrective action, making "take no corrective action" the appropriate response.

Question 15

Effective planning by managers helps accomplish which step in the control process?

Accepted Answer

Effective planning by managers is crucial for establishing performance objectives and standards, which is the foundation for the control process. This step precedes measuring actual performance, comparing it with the objectives, taking corrective actions, and evaluating those actions.

Question 16

Controlling does all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Controlling involves monitoring performance, comparing it with goals, and correcting any deviations. It does not directly involve securing financing for the enterprise, which is more related to the financial management aspect of a business.

Question 17

A(n) __________ is self-contained in its performance-monitoring and correction capabilities.

Accepted Answer

A cybernetic control system is self-contained in its performance-monitoring and correction capabilities, as it involves a continuous process of setting goals, measuring performance, and making adjustments to achieve those goals effectively.

Question 18

The four steps of the control process are: establish objectives and standards; __________; compare results with objectives and standards, and __________.

Accepted Answer

The correct steps in the control process after establishing objectives and standards are to measure actual performance and then take corrective action as needed if there are deviations from the set standards.

Question 19

__________ measure performance results in terms of quantity, quality, cost or time of accomplished work.

Accepted Answer

Output standards specifically measure performance results in terms of quantity, quality, cost, or time of accomplished work, focusing on the outcomes or results of work processes.

Question 20

The role of the controlling function in the management process is:

Accepted Answer

The controlling function in management is primarily concerned with ensuring that actual activities conform to planned activities. It involves measuring performance, comparing it with goals, and taking corrective action as needed to ensure that the organization's objectives are achieved. This function is crucial for ensuring results align with plans.

Quiz 11: Controlling