In the context of Basics of Management, *control* is one of the key managerial functions, alongside planning, organizing, staffing, and directing. Control ensures that organizational activities are performed according to established plans and objectives. It is the process of comparing actual performance with predetermined standards, identifying deviations, and taking corrective actions to achieve goals efficiently and effectively. To achieve meaningful and productive control in an organization, several requisites or requirements must be fulfilled. These requisites serve as the foundation for designing a control system that is functional, proactive, and integrated into management practices. --- ### Requisites of Effective Control 1. Suitability to the Activity A control system must be appropriate for the activity being monitored. Every function or department may have different objectives and characteristics. For example, production control measures may differ significantly from marketing control metrics. The tools, standards, and techniques used for control should align with the nature and scale of the activity. 2. Timeliness Control must be timely to be effective. Delayed feedback reduces the chances of rectifying deviations in time. For instance, financial reports generated after a quarter ends may not help managers take prompt action. Real-time or frequent control mechanisms ensure issues are identified early and corrective measures are implemented before it's too late. 3. Objectivity and Accuracy Control systems should rely on objective and verifiable data, not subjective impressions. Accurate data leads to better decision-making. For example, using clear KPIs like sales revenue, defect rate, or employee turnover provides reliable insights compared to vague indicators such as "employee satisfaction" without measurable parameters. 4. Economy Control must justify the cost. The benefits derived from a control system should outweigh the resources spent on it. Overly complex or expensive controls for routine or low-impact processes can reduce efficiency and productivity. Hence, the control mechanism should be simple, cost-effective, and not overly burdensome. 5. Flexibility An effective control system should be adaptable to changing environments. Market conditions, technologies, and organizational structures often evolve. A rigid control system may become obsolete quickly. For instance, during a technological shift, performance metrics may need adjustment to remain relevant. 6. Focus on Strategic Points Control should concentrate on key result areas (KRAs). Management cannot monitor every activity in detail. Therefore, attention should be given to the most critical operations that directly influence the organization's success. This is often referred to as the principle of "management by exception." 7. Integration with Planning Control is meaningful only when it aligns with the planning function. Plans establish the benchmarks and targets against which actual performance is compared. Therefore, effective control requires a robust planning process, and both functions should complement each other. 8. Action-Oriented The control process should not end at identifying deviations. It must lead to timely corrective actions. A control system that only reports problems without offering solutions or follow-up action is ineffective. 9. Motivational A good control system should encourage employees to perform better rather