Important Principles of Coordination

Mary Parker Follett has mentioned the following as important principles of co-ordination:

Important principles of coordination

1. Direct Contact: The principle of direct contact is concerned with the cross relation between the heads of departments, rather than up and down the line through the chief executive. This appears reasonable as individuals who are close to the problem, must indispensably have the good chance for direct contact. Mary Follett says that Coordination can be achieved by direct contact of the responsible people.

Direct contact and proper communication among different persons helps in removing the conflict and misunderstanding among them. It also helps in bringing out agreement on actions, methods and ultimate attainment of goals.

2. Early Stages: Coordination should be started in the early stages of planning and policy making. Mary Parker Follett described the principle of coordination in early stages by taking up policy making. She says that if the heads of departments themselves frame the policies without consulting others, then there might be disagreement and opposition. On the other hand, if the heads of the departments meets and discusses every question involved and frames the policy in consultation with all the persons concerned, then the implementation of policy may be easier. Therefore, achieving coordination in the initial stages of planning and policy making is necessary.

3. Reciprocal Relationship: Another principle of co-ordination is reciprocal relationship of all the factors in a situation. That is, all the factors in a situation are reciprocally related and each work influences and is influenced by other works. For instance, M works with N who in turn works with O and P, and the relationship of all the four will be reciprocal. If there is no co-ordination among them, the work of each person will be badly affected.

4. Continuous Process: The fourth principle, recommended by Follett is that coordination is a continuous process. It is a never ending process which must go on all the time in the organization. It is already stated that co-ordination is not a separate function and employing of each managerial function involves coordination. So management should make constant efforts to achieve co-ordination. It should not be left to a mere chance.