Hi, I have a question and I hope anyone could answer it:
“If the project is important then more alternatives should be generated and thoroughly discussed amongst the members of the organisation.” Identify and explain the step in the process of planning being discussed above. Also explain the remaining steps which will have to be carried out to complete the process.
Identifying alternative courses of action: Once objectives are set assumptions are made. Then the next step would be to act upon them. There may be many ways to act and achieve objectives. All the alternative courses of action should be identified. The course of action which may be taken could be either routine or innovative. An innovative course may be adopted by involving more people and sharing their ideas.
Remaining steps to carried out to complete the process are as follows:
1. Evaluating alternative courses: The next step is to weigh pros and cons of each alternative. Each course will have many variables which have to be weighed against each other. The positive and negative aspects of each proposal need to be evaluated in the light of the objective to be achieved.
2. Selecting an alternative: This is the real point of decision making. The best plan has to be adopted and implemented. The ideal plan, of course, would be the most feasible, profitable and with least negative consequences. Most plans may not always be subjected to a mathematical analysis.
3. Implementing the plan: This is the step where other managerial functions also come into the picture. The step is concerned with putting the plan into action.
4. Follow up action: To see whether plans are being implemented and activities are performed according to schedule is also part of the planning process. Monitoring the plans is equally important to ensure that objectives are achieved.