管理学学习资料：robbins_mgmt11_im08.docVIP

Chapter 8 Foundations of Planning In this chapter, we begin our study of the first of the management functions: planning. Planning is important because it establishes what an organization is doing. We’ll look at how managers set goals as well as how they establish plans. Focus on the following learning outcomes as you read and study this chapter. LEARNING OUTCOMES 8.1 Define the nature and purposes of planning. 8.2 Classify the types of goals organizations might have and the plans they use. 8.3 Compare and contrast approaches to goal setting and planning. 8.4 Discuss contemporary issues in planning. A MANAGER’S DILEMMA Your students may be familiar with the adage, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Chapter 8 examines skills needed for effectiveness in the first of the four management functions—planning. After learning about the purposes of planning, students will discover how managers at different levels of an organization develop plans and empower employees to participate in the planning process. “A Manager’s Dilemma” tells the story of Lou Policastro, executive vice president of Geodis Wilson. Geodis Wilson manages logistics for the World Food Program (WFP). After the massive earthquake struck Haiti on January 12, 2010, the WPF had an urgent need to move hundreds of tons of emergency supplies to the island. Policastro oversaw the logistics operation that moved a substantial amount of supplies and food within just four days. Students are asked to imagine themselves in Mr. Policastro’s position as he plans for additional aid efforts to Haiti. What types of plans might be needed? Why would knowledge and understanding of the many facets of planning be important for Policastro’s success? CHAPTER OUTLINE INTRODUCTION Planning is one of the four functions of management. Fundamental information about managerial planning is presented in this chapter; the text discusses the nature and purposes of planning, strategies for effective planning, and