Introduction to Management

Managing in organisations, small and large, in changing local and international business environments requires knowledge, skills, and abilities of who managers are, what managers do, and how they can make a difference to organisational performance, competitive position, and sustainability over time. This paper introduces students to management and organisational theory and practice using strategic management and the functions of management as essential frameworks. The paper shows students how to analyse organisations using management theory and how to suggest changes that respond to challenges and opportunities in diverse industries and sectors. As well as typically-studied organisational forms, this paper considers management in small and medium enterprises, Maori enterprise, not-for-profit, and state-owned entities. The relationship between management and organisational performance is also considered. Using the case teaching method, students develop a critical awareness that managing is a mix of artful and scientific decision-making that requires analytical and interpersonal skills.