Performance Control

i.Definition and Features of Controlling

Let's go down the memory lane. Think of those days when you were in Class XII studying for your first terminal examination. You decided to secure 75% marks in aggregate and started studying accordingly. When you received your Report Card you were shocked because you could manage to get only 60%. After certain hue and cry you must have sat down and thought that where you went wrong -

•  Whether your scheduling was incorrect; or
•  Whether your syllabus was too heavy; or
•  Whether you got nervous right at time of examination; or
•  Whether you had not revised the lessons thoroughly.

Lastly, you must have made fresh plans to do better at the next terminal examination by making a proper timetable, by revising the lessons thoroughly and by streamlining your study pattern.

In the above process you have unknowingly applied the controlling procedure.

i) Define Controlling

Controlling is nothing but to set standards, measure the performance, compare the performance with the standards set and take corrective measures if deviations are found. In other words controlling is comparing operating results with the plans and taking corrective action when result deviates from the plan. Thus, controlling is an 'action oriented' process.

Control process can be illustrated with the help of an example of automatic iron,press which is fitted with thermostat. As soon as the iron is switched on the bulb lights up - it means that the current is passing in the iron. The current goes on passing as long as the temperature does not reach the level at which the thermostat is set. Immediately after the temperature reaches that level, the thermostat starts functioning and the current is disconnected, thereby causing the bulb to go off.

When the temperature becomes low than the level set, the thermostat allows again the current to pass and the bulb lights up. Here, the thermostat is acting like a controlling device, which compares the actual performance with the standard set.

It starts functioning and disconnects the electric current when the actual deviates from the standard.

ii) Features of Controlling

•  It is the last function of management process, the first function being planning.
•  It is a dynamic process, adapting itself to the changes in the environment.
•  It is a continuing process.
•  It is pervasive in nature i.e. it is found at all the levels of management.
•  It is backward looking because it involves feedback and responses. It is linked with - what has happened in the past.