Coordination is a continuous process, by which a manager integrates the inter-related activities of different departments in order to achieve the common organisational goals.
Features of coordination are as follows:
(i) Integration of group efforts All business activities are interdependent. Therefore, there should be coordination among them. Coordination enables the business to make efficient use of its available resources.
(ii) Unity of action Coordination enables the manager to secure unity of action in the direction of a common purpose.
(iii) Continuous process It is a continuous process and not a one-time task. A manager has to continuously coordinate the activities of different departments in order to meet the targets by using the available resources efficiently.
(iv) All pervasive function It is an all pervasive function, which runs through all managerial functions from planning till controlling. It is not only needed among different departments but also within the departments at all levels.
(v) Deliberate function A manager has to coordinate the efforts of different individuals working in an organisation in a conscious and deliberate manner.
The need and importance of coordination can be judged from these points:
- It encourages team spirit,
- It gives proper direction,
- It facilitates motivation,
- It makes optimum utilization of resources,
- It helps to achieve objectives quickly,
- It improves relations in the organization,
- It leads to higher efficiency and
- It improves goodwill of the organization.