Whether one is managing the production of an apple pie or running a multi-national business, the
planning logic is the same. A vision leads to action that is coordinated in a management plan.
The following are some of the most obvious and important functions of a plan.
To identify the features to be managed
A feature is a valued element of the business, nature site or community; for example, an
aeroplane wing, a habitat, the level of crime.
To identify the objectives of management.
This is perhaps the single most important and obvious function of the planning process. It
is essential that the objective, or purpose, of managing a feature is identified and stated. In
other words, what are we all trying to achieve? Only then can we ask and answer the
question, "Are our actions appropriate and effective?"
To identify and describe the work required to achieve the objectives.
Having established that the purpose of management has been identified, it follows that the
taks to reach the objective must be described. A manager must be able, at any time, to
relate the work being undertaken to the objectives of management. If no such relationship
exists, then for what purpose is the work being undertaken? Often, works or projects are
completed for no good reason. One of the benefits of planning is that it will preclude the
possibility of managers acting on impulse.
To resolve any conflicts and prioritise the various objectives.
Occasionally, there will be an apparent conflict of interest and priorities between
conservation features. However, once the facts are assembled, and a little logic applied, it
usually becomes apparent that features are only very rarely equal in importance. It is
essential that the planning process be recognised as the forum for resolving conflicts of
management and allocating priorities to features and their objectives.
To maintain continuity of effective management.
The planning process can be compared to a road map; it identifies our destination and
shows the route to action. Whenever we deviate from that route we waste time and fuel. In
other words, we can’t afford to make changes of direction unless we have unlimited fuel and
time. The management plan provides a route or direction for existing and, more importantly,
future managers and workers. The latter makes the management plan an essential
resource for smaller voluntary organisations, where management is carried out by a
succession of staff and volunteers. The long-term continuity of monitoring systems is no
less important than continuity of physical management.
To obtain resources.
A management plan, in draft form, should be regarded, and used, as a bid for resources.
Where external funding is sought, an approved plan should be the main part of any
application for resources. The monitoring function of the plan is the vehicle for funders to
check out value for money once management is underway.
To enable communication within and between communities and organisations.
The planning process is dependent on the management and utilisation of data. A
management system cannot operate in isolation. Often, external influences will be the
most significant factors affecting management. Our ability to assess the condition of a
feature can also be dependent on information obtained from external sources. Management
techniques and procedures may be being developed and improved at other places. This
information could increase efficiency if it were available to others in a standard planning
format.
To demonstrate that management is effective and efficient.
A community must always be in a position to demonstrate that it is making the best use of
resources. It is essential to recognise the need for accountability, and the performance
indicators of the management plan will provide the information.
To identify and define the monitoring requirements.
The condition of each feature of the site, and main
factors that affect the condition, must
be quantified and monitored. If a plan does not identify the need to monitor the condition
of features, then it should not be regarded as a plan. If monitoring is not undertaken, it will
not be possible to determine the the intensity and impact of the various factors. Knowledge
about the condition of a feature, along with an understanding of the role of factors, will
enable an assessment of management effectiveness. Measurements of the conditon are
performance indicators to ensure accountability. An in depth account of factors for species
and habitat management plans is provided under the topic '
Management factors'
