Which of the following is NOT a step of the process of planning?

The correct answer is option 4- The subsequent step is to assign work duties to employees and create reporting relationships.

The subsequent step is to assign work duties to employees and create reporting relationships- It is a step of organising and not planning.

Planning typically involves the following seven steps:

1. Setting Objectives: Establishing what the organization wants to achieve (Option 1).

2. Developing Planning Premises: Making assumptions about the future environment (forecasts, policies, etc.).

3. Identifying Alternative Courses of Action: Listing the various ways to achieve the goals.

4. Evaluating Alternative Courses: Weighing the pros and cons of each option based on feasibility and consequences.

5. Selecting an Alternative: Choosing the best plan or a combination of plans (Option 2).

6. Implementing the Plan: Putting the plan into action by mobilizing resources (Option 3).

7. Follow-up Action: Monitoring the plan to ensure objectives are being met.