The chapter on controlling opens with the example of Departure Control Systems (DCS) used by airlines.
Which lesson about managers is drawn from this example?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Managers need to take corrective action before any damage is done to the business.
Option (1) Managers need to perform controlling at the top, middle and lower levels of management. — Incorrect. Controlling is needed at all levels of management, but this is a feature of controlling. It is not the lesson drawn from the airline example.
Option (2) Managers need to take corrective action before any damage is done to the business. — Correct. A Departure Control System keeps a live check on check-in, boarding and baggage. The lesson is that managers must handle situations wisely and take corrective action before any damage is done. Controlling helps them do this.
Option (3) Managers need to measure performance in an objective and reliable manner. — Incorrect. Measuring performance in an objective and reliable way belongs to Step 2, measurement of actual performance. The example is not used to make this point.
Option (4) Managers need to identify the exact causes of deviations before taking corrective action. — Incorrect. Finding the exact causes of deviations belongs to Step 4, analysing deviations. The example does not deal with causes.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “It is quite clear from the example that all managers need to manage situations intelligently and take corrective action before any damage is done to the business. Controlling function of management comes to the rescue of a manager here. It not only helps in keeping a track on the progress of activities but also ensures that activities conform to the standards set in advance so that organisational goals are achieved.” |