Schedules A schedule is a plan that identifies time and resources needed to complete tasks and activities. It is a tool used to allocate resources. Schedules are necessary to ensure deadlines are met and plans are executed in a timely manner. For example, a Gantt chart can be used to schedule completion dates for a project. A Gantt chart is a type of bar chart used to show when a task is supposed to be completed and compares it to the actual progress of the task. An example of a Gantt chart is shown in Figure 3-7. In addition, schedules ensure the appropriate human resources are available as needed. Too many employees on the payroll will decrease profitability. Too few can put the organization at risk if there are not enough employees to create products to meet customer needs. Scheduling is especially important for managers who oversee day-to-day operations. There are many software programs available for use that can increase efficiency of the scheduling process. Most management information systems have a program in which the manager is able to create a master schedule and then push the schedule electronically to employees. All workers see the same schedule at the same time. Changes can then be made and approved through the software, which eliminates the need for paper schedules. Policies A policy is a set of rules and regulations that guide the decision-making process. Policies support the mission and goals of an organization and define how to handle situations. Upper management typically creates policies that apply mostly to operational routines, recurring situations, or issues. For example, policies for customer service address issues such as how to Ethics Accountability Accountability is a person being responsible for his or her own activities and behavior. An ethical person accepts responsibility for his or her mistakes, whether large or small. Making a mistake is not unethical. However, not taking responsibility for an error or trying to cover it up is unethical. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 3-7 A Gantt chart is a type of bar chart used to show when a task is supposed to be completed and compares it to the actual progress of the task. PROJECT SCHEDULE PROJECT: PRODUCT LAUNCH DIRECTOR: MYLIE PARK PROJECT SCHEDULE FEBRUARY MARCH 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Initial project meeting Timeline for project established Meeting to review and assign team members Meeting to establish team member tasks Conference with suppliers Meet with marketing Meet with sales Conference with advertising agency Management approval and sign off Launch product into market Principles of Management 50 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.