Which sequence correctly lists Fayol's five management functions (Planning, Organising, Commanding, Coordinating, Controlling)?

• A. Planning, Organising, Coordinating, Commanding, Controlling
• B. Planning, Organising, Commanding, Coordinating, Controlling
• C. Planning, Controlling, Organising, Commanding, Coordinating
• D. Planning, Commanding, Organising, Coordinating, Controlling

Answer: (B)

Fayol’s five management functions are a sequence that starts with deciding what to achieve and how to do it, then organizing resources to implement that plan, followed by directing people to carry out the tasks, then coordinating the activities so they work together smoothly, and finally monitoring performance to correct any deviations. This order—planning first, then organizing, then commanding (leading), then coordinating, and finally controlling—reflects a logical flow from setting objectives to executing and then ensuring everything aligns with the plan. Moving any step earlier or later would disrupt the process; for example, leading without a plan or coordinating before leadership doesn’t fit how the functions are intended to interact.