What is the correct sequence of Planning process?
A. Selecting an alternative
B. Identifying & Evaluating alternative courses of action
C. Setting objectives & Developing premises
D. Implementing the plan and Follow up action
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → C, B, A, D
(C) Setting objectives and developing premises — first. Nothing can be planned until the goal is fixed and the assumptions about the future are laid down, since every later step is measured against them.
(B) Identifying and evaluating alternative courses of action — second. With the objective settled, the ways of reaching it are listed and then weighed for cost, risk and benefit.
(A) Selecting an alternative — third. The best of the evaluated courses is chosen; this is the real point of decision, and it cannot come before the alternatives have been weighed.
(D) Implementing the plan and follow up action — last. A plan is put into action only after it has been chosen, and follow-up then checks whether it is working.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Planning Process … (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. …” “(iv) Evaluating alternative courses: The next step is to weigh the pros and cons of each alternative. …” “Selecting an alternative: This is the real point of decision making. The best plan has to be adopted and implemented.” “(vi) 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, i.e., doing what is required. …” “(vii) Follow-up action: To see whether plans are being implemented and activities are performed according to schedule is also part of the planning process. …” |