Which function of management is seen as a generic function?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Staffing
Option (1) Planning — Incorrect. Planning is the first function of management, deciding in advance what to do and how. It is not the function described as generic.
Option (2) Directing — Incorrect. Directing guides and motivates people who are already in their posts.
Option (3) Staffing — Correct. Staffing means filling the positions in the organisation structure and keeping them filled with suitable people. Every manager in every department has to do it, and it follows directly from organising: once positions are created, people must be found, trained and motivated for them. That is why it is seen as a generic function of management, one that deals with the human element of every manager’s job.
Option (4) Coordination — Incorrect. Coordination is not a separate function at all. It is the essence of management, running through all the functions.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Staffing as part of Human Resource Management … It is the job of managers to fill positions in their organisation and to make sure that they remain occupied with qualified people. Staffing is closely linked to organising since after the structure and positions have been decided, people are required to work in these positions. Subsequently, they need to be trained and motivated to work in harmony with the goals of the organisation. Thus, staffing is seen as a generic function of management. …” |
Note: The same/similar question has been asked in different years by NTA as per the details given below:
| 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| 21-05 S1 | 13-05 S2 | – | – | – |