Lesson 12: PRINCIPLES OF CONTROL AND VIGILANCE
- Devaki R Menon
- Jul 28
- 2 min read
The fifth function of management, Controlling, ensures that activities are carried out as planned and objectives are achieved efficiently. It involves setting standards, measuring performance, and taking corrective actions wherever necessary. Vigilance plays a key role in keeping processes aligned with the desired goals.
In organizations, Managers develop effective control and vigilance system customized to its goals and resources. It provides them with the type of information they need to measure and monitor performance on a periodic basis. Sri Rama had recognized the need for effective control and vigilance system with a rigid framework. When Bharatha came to meet Sri Rama in the forest, Rama was anxious to know if Bharata is following the instructions that he had given before he left for Vanavasam.
In Ayodhya Kandam, there are 100s of things that Sri Rama is checking with the present ruler in charge, Bharatha; likewise, the company Directors make sure with the CEO whether the company policies are followed systematically. Sri Rama enquires whether Bharata is treating Family members, Gurus, Army, Warriors, Ministers, Competitors etc. as per norms. Whether he is getting information from the three spies about the 18 functionaries of the enemies and 15 functionaries of his own side. He wishes to know if City of Ayodhya remain furnished with everything and is flourishing that was formerly inhabited by the heroic ancestors.
He checks if resources are maintained properly, chariots, elephants are taken care of, income and expenditure, social responsibilities are followed, how Bharata deals with 10 evils and finally ensures if he is following the common practices which the forefathers observed in accordance with the path of Virtue.
Sri Rama believed in micro management and had checklists for close monitoring to prevent any discrepancies.
Comments