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 tasks 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 quantifiedand 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 condition 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'
