Meaning: Harold Geneen, a prominent businessman and former CEO of ITT Corporation, made this statement about the role of management in an organization. In this quote, he emphasizes the core function of management, which is to make decisions and ensure that those decisions are effectively put into action. This straightforward and succinct definition encapsulates the essence of management and its fundamental responsibilities within a business or any organizational setting.

The first part of the quote, "Management manages by making decisions," highlights the crucial role of decision-making in the management process. Managers are tasked with analyzing situations, evaluating options, and ultimately making choices that will impact the organization. These decisions can range from strategic choices such as entering new markets or launching new products, to operational decisions like resource allocation and process improvements. Effective decision-making is a hallmark of successful management, as it directly influences the direction and performance of the organization.

The second part of the quote, "and by seeing that those decisions are implemented," underscores the importance of execution and follow-through in the management process. It is not enough for managers to make decisions; they must also ensure that these decisions are translated into action within the organization. This involves communicating the decisions clearly to the relevant stakeholders, allocating resources as needed, and monitoring the progress to ensure successful implementation. Without effective implementation, even the best decisions can fail to yield the desired results.

Geneen's quote reflects the dynamic and multifaceted nature of management. It highlights the dual role of managers as decision-makers and implementers, emphasizing their responsibility to drive the organization forward through effective planning and execution. Moreover, the quote implies that successful management is not just about the ability to make sound decisions, but also about the capability to translate those decisions into tangible outcomes.

In practice, this quote resonates with the day-to-day challenges and responsibilities faced by managers across various industries. Whether it's a senior executive crafting a long-term strategic plan or a frontline supervisor coordinating the execution of a new process, the essence of management remains consistent. It involves the continual cycle of decision-making, implementation, and adaptation in response to changing circumstances.

Furthermore, Geneen's perspective aligns with the broader principles of management theory and practice. The concept of decision-making as a core managerial function is central to classical management theories, such as Henri Fayol's administrative management principles, which emphasize the importance of planning, organizing, commanding, coordinating, and controlling within an organization. Similarly, modern management frameworks, including strategic management and project management methodologies, emphasize the critical role of decision-making and implementation in achieving organizational objectives.

In conclusion, Harold Geneen's quote succinctly captures the essence of management as a process of decision-making and implementation. It serves as a reminder of the fundamental responsibilities of managers and the dynamic nature of their roles within organizations. By understanding and embracing the core principles articulated in this quote, managers can strive to enhance their effectiveness in driving organizational success.