Controlling is an essential function of management that involves monitoring, evaluating, and regulating activities to ensure that organizational goals are being met. There are four key characteristics of controlling that help managers effectively oversee operations and make necessary adjustments to achieve desired outcomes.

The first characteristic of controlling is that it is a continuous process. This means that monitoring and evaluating activities must be ongoing to keep track of progress and identify any deviations from the set objectives. By regularly assessing performance and comparing it to the established standards, managers can quickly identify issues and take corrective action before they escalate.

Another important characteristic of controlling is that it is closely linked to planning. Controlling involves comparing actual performance with the planned goals and objectives to determine whether the organization is on track. If there are significant discrepancies, managers can use this information to make adjustments to the plan or reallocate resources to ensure that goals are met.

Controlling also involves taking corrective action when necessary. This means that managers must be prepared to make changes to operations, strategies, or resources if performance is not meeting expectations. By promptly addressing issues and implementing solutions, managers can help the organization stay on course and achieve its objectives.

Lastly, controlling requires the establishment of clear standards and measures of performance. Without well-defined benchmarks, it can be challenging to assess whether goals are being met and to identify areas that need improvement. By setting specific, measurable targets and regularly evaluating performance against these standards, managers can effectively monitor progress and make informed decisions to drive success.

In conclusion, the four key characteristics of controlling - being a continuous process, closely linked to planning, involving corrective action, and requiring clear standards - are essential for effective management oversight. By implementing these characteristics, managers can ensure that organizational goals are being met, identify and address issues promptly, and drive ongoing improvement and success.