Lesson 4.2: Controlling

  • Lesson 4.2: Controlling

    Learning Goals: By the end of this lesson you will be able to

    1. Relate control to planning

    2. Describe the control process

    3. Explain the two types of control systems


    • In Class:
      1. Read the lesson article + Answer the questions at the end
      2. Do the glossary quiz
      3. Do the check your understanding quiz
      4. Do the exit card
      5. Post your notes from the reading in the homework forum

    • Lesson Note - Business Control File

      Read the lesson note and answer the questions at the end. Post your notes in the homework forum.

    • Lesson 4.2 Glossary Quiz

      Do this quiz to check you know the vocabulary for this lesson.

    • Lesson 4.2 Homework Forum

      Post your notes from the reading here by 1 hour before class.

    • Lesson 4.2 Exit Card Questionnaire

      Do this short survey to reflect on how the lesson went and ask a question.



    • According to McGregor, Theory X management assumes the following:

      • Work is inherently distasteful to most people, and they will attempt to avoid work whenever possible.
      • Most people are not ambitious, have little desire for responsibility, and prefer to be directed.
      • Most people have little aptitude for creativity in solving organizational problems.
      • Motivation occurs only at the physiological and security levels of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.
      • Most people are self-centered. As a result, they must be closely controlled and often coerced to achieve organizational objectives.
      • Most people resist change.
      • Most people are gullible and unintelligent.

      Theory Y

      The higher-level needs of esteem and self-actualization are ongoing needs that, for most people, are never completely satisfied. As such, it is these higher-level needs through which employees can best be motivated.

      In strong contrast to Theory X, Theory Y management makes the following assumptions:

      • Work can be as natural as play if the conditions are favorable.
      • People will be self-directed and creative to meet their work and organizational objectives if they are committed to them.
      • People will be committed to their quality and productivity objectives if rewards are in place that address higher needs such as self-fulfillment.
      • The capacity for creativity spreads throughout organizations.
      • Most people can handle responsibility because creativity and ingenuity are common in the population.
      • Under these conditions, people will seek responsibility.