Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) Practice Test

What is the main goal of the controlling function in management?

1. Establishing company policies

2. Monitoring performance and comparing it with goals

3. Organizing team-building activities

4. Communicating with stakeholders

The correct answer is: Monitoring performance and comparing it with goals

The primary goal of the controlling function in management is to monitor performance and compare it with established goals. This process is critical as it involves assessing the actual progress of an organization's activities against its set objectives and benchmarks. Effective controlling allows management to identify areas where performance does not meet expectations, enabling corrective actions to be implemented as necessary. By continuously evaluating and measuring performance, managers can ensure that the organization is on track to achieve its goals and make informed decisions about resource allocation, strategy adjustments, and operational improvements. This feedback loop is essential for successful management, as it aligns the day-to-day activities with the long-term objectives of the organization. While establishing company policies, organizing team-building activities, and communicating with stakeholders are important aspects of management, they do not represent the core purpose of the controlling function. Instead, those activities fall under different management functions like planning, leading, and organizing.