Management is the implementation of policies created by effective leadership. Each process must be managed at each level to ensure proper management.
Leadership and governance are two terms that are often used interchangeably. To understand the difference between leadership and management, you must know that the two are not synonymous. The two concepts are different in function, but both serve the same purpose. Through this article we will explain these terms one by one and what is the difference between management and administration
Management involves the process of strategic planning, organizing resources, coordinating efforts, directing activities and maintaining control to achieve organizational goals. This diverse discipline includes making informed decisions, optimizing resources, fostering collaboration between teams, ensuring leadership and monitoring progress to ensure compliance with established criteria. Whether for businesses, nonprofits, or government agencies, effective management is central to resource efficiency, goal achievement, and adaptability in a dynamic environment. Many management theories and models, from classical to contemporary, contribute to shaping management practices, and approaches are adapted to factors such as organizational culture, industry dynamics and management preferences
Management involves monitoring the day-to-day operations of the organization and its smooth functioning, ensuring the practices and decisions set by management. This includes tasks such as managing schedules, facilitating communication, optimizing resources and solving problems as they arise. Managers play an important role in policy implementation and ensure that guidelines are followed and organizational goals are achieved. Their coordination work aligns different groups and individuals, and their adaptability enables them to respond effectively to changing circumstances. While management focuses on strategic direction, management takes care of the practical and operational aspects and contributes together to the overall efficiency and achievements of the organization. In smaller environments, these roles may merge, while in larger organizations there may be separate departments or individuals for each function
Parameters |
Management |
Administration |
Decision-making |
Managers make strategic and tactical decisions, setting goals and formulating plans to achieve them. |
Administrators implement policies, procedures, and rules established by management. |
Definition |
Process of supervising people so that they can achieve a goal. This involves streamlining processes, workflow and objectives. |
Administration is a systematic process to administer management. This includes making plans and policies and enforcing them to achieve goals. |
Focus |
Future-oriented, strategic planning and decision-making. |
Present-oriented, operational management and execution. |
Scope |
Broader and encompasses the entire organization, including setting goals and formulating strategies. |
Narrower and primarily focuses on specific functions, departments, or processes within the organization. |
Function |
Planning and organizing |
Directing and controlling operations. |
Leadership |
Managers provide leadership, direction, and motivation to employees. |
Administrators provide oversight, guidance, and support to managers and employees. |
Following are the differences between administration and management.
For any organization, management is essential for the following reasons:
Whether it is a profit-making organization or an NGO, proper administration is required to achieve the objectives of the organization.
An MBA (Master of Business Administration) can play an important role in the information technology (IT) industry, providing professionals with versatile skills and a strategic perspective that are valuable in leading and managing IT initiatives. Here are some key roles an MBA can play in the IT industry
Strategic Management:
MBA graduates have the strategic planning skills essential to align IT initiatives with overall business goals. They can analyze market trends, assess competitive situations and develop strategies to effectively use technology to improve business results
Leadership and Team Management
MBAs often develop strong leadership skills through their job descriptions and practical experience. In the IT sector, effective leadership is essential for managing cross-functional teams, fostering innovation and making projects successful.
Project Management:
MBA programs often include courses in project management that are directly applicable to implementing IT projects. MBA graduates can apply structured methods to manage IT projects and ensure they are completed on time, on budget and meet stakeholder expectations
Business Analysis and Decision-Making:
MBAs are trained in quantitative analysis, financial management, and decision-making processes. In IT, these skills are valuable for evaluating business cases for IT investments, conducting cost-benefit analyses, and making informed decisions about technology adoption and implementation.
In theory, both are different terms, but in practice, you will find that the terms are more or less the same. You would have noticed that a manager performs both administrative and operational duties. While top-level managers are said to be part of management, middle or lower-level managers represent management. Management is therefore above management. Check out some general management courses
Ques 1. What is the difference between management and administration?
Ans 1. Management involves planning, organizing, leading, and controlling resources to achieve organizational goals. Administration focuses on implementing policies, managing day-to-day operations, and ensuring organizational efficiency.
Ques 2. Who are managers and administrators?
Ans 2. Managers are responsible for decision-making, setting objectives, and overseeing resources. Administrators handle the execution of plans, coordinate activities, and manage operational details.
Ques 3. Do managers and administrators have different roles in an organization?
Ans 3. Yes, managers focus on strategic direction, leadership, and decision-making, while administrators concentrate on operational implementation, coordination, and compliance with policies.
Ques 4. What skills are essential for managers?
Ans 4. Managers need skills in leadership, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making to set goals, allocate resources effectively, and drive organizational success.
Ques 5. What skills are essential for administrators?
Ans 5. Administrators require strong organizational skills, attention to detail, communication abilities, and proficiency in implementing procedures to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.