The main features to be considered by the management while planning are:
(i) It Focuses on Achieving Objectives Planning is purposeful. Planning has no meaning unless it contributes to the achievement of predetermined organisational goals.
(ii) It is the Primary Function Planning lays down the base for other functions of management. All other managerial functions are performed within the framework of the plans drawn. Thus, planning precedes other function.
(iii) Planning is Pervasive Planning is required at all levels of management as well as in all departments of the organizations. The top management undertakes planning for the organisation as a whole. Middle management does the departmental planning. At the lowest level, day-to-day operational planning is done by supervisors.
(iv) Planning is Continuous Plans are prepared for a specific period of time, may be for a month, a quarter or a year. At the end of that period, there is need for a new plan to be drawn on the basis of new requirements and future conditions. Hence, planning is a continuous process.
(v) Planning is Futuristic The purpose of planning is to meet future events effectively to the best advantage of an organisation. It is implies peeping into the future, analysing it and predicting it.
(vi) Planning Involves Decision Making Planning essentially involves choice from among various alternatives and activities. If there is only one possible goal then there is no need for planning. The need only arises when alternatives are available. Planning thus, involves thorough examination and evaluation of each alternative and choosing the most appropriate one.
(vii) Planning is a Mental Exercise Planning is basically an intellectual activity of thinking rather than doing, because planning determines the action to be taken. Planning requires logical and systematic thinking rather than guesswork or wishful thinking.
