Identify the correct sequence of first five steps of planning process.
A. Evaluating alternative courses
B. Developing premises
C. Setting objectives
D. Selecting an alternative
E. Identifying alternative courses of action
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → C, B, E, A, D
(C) Setting objectives — the first step. The manager first decides what the organisation wants to achieve, for example a 10% rise in sales.
(B) Developing premises — the second step. Premises are assumptions about the future, for example about demand, prices and tax rates. Planners make these assumptions with the help of forecasts.
(E) Identifying alternative courses of action — the third step. Once the objectives and assumptions are ready, the manager lists the different ways in which the objectives can be achieved.
(A) Evaluating alternative courses — the fourth step. The good and bad points (pros and cons) of each way are weighed.
(D) Selecting an alternative — the fifth step. The best plan is chosen. It is called “the real point of decision making”.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “(i) Setting Objectives: The first and foremost step is setting objectives. Every organisation must have certain objectives. …” “(ii) Developing Premises: Planning is concerned with the future which is uncertain and every planner is using conjecture about what might happen in future.” “(iii) 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. …” “(iv) Evaluating alternative courses: The next step is to weigh the pros and cons of each alternative. …” “(v) Selecting an alternative: This is the real point of decision making. The best plan has to be adopted and implemented. …” |