Management by objective works - if you know the objectives. Ninety percent of the time you don't

Management by objective works - if you know the objectives. Ninety percent of the time you don't

Peter Drucker, often referred to as the father of modern management, was a renowned management consultant, educator, and author who made significant contributions to the field of management theory. One of his most famous quotes is, "Management by objective works - if you know the objectives. Ninety percent of the time you don't." This statement highlights the importance of setting clear and specific objectives in order to effectively manage and achieve organizational goals.

Drucker believed that setting clear objectives was essential for successful management. He argued that without clearly defined objectives, it is impossible to measure progress, evaluate performance, and make informed decisions. In his book "The Practice of Management," Drucker emphasized the importance of setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) objectives to guide organizational activities and ensure alignment with overall goals.

However, Drucker also acknowledged that in many cases, managers do not have a clear understanding of the objectives they are supposed to achieve. This lack of clarity can lead to confusion, inefficiency, and ultimately, failure to meet organizational goals. Drucker believed that this was a common problem in many organizations, and he emphasized the need for managers to work closely with their superiors to clarify objectives and ensure alignment with the organization's overall mission and strategy.