Supervision in the Hospitality Industry- AHLEI Practice Test

Which component of management involves comparing actual performance with performance standards?

1. Controlling

2. Directing

3. Staffing

4. Coordinating

The correct answer is: Controlling

The component of management that focuses on comparing actual performance with performance standards is known as controlling. This process involves monitoring the organization's progress toward its goals and ensuring that performance aligns with established standards. By evaluating actual performance against predetermined benchmarks, managers can identify areas that require improvement or adjustments. Controlling is crucial for maintaining organizational efficiency and effectiveness, as it provides the necessary feedback to make informed decisions. This ongoing assessment allows managers to recognize successful outcomes or identify variances that need corrective action. The other components do not specifically involve this evaluative process. Directing is about leading and motivating staff to achieve objectives, staffing involves recruiting and training employees, and coordinating focuses on aligning activities and resources to achieve desired results. Each of these functions plays a vital role in management but does not center on the performance evaluation aspect inherent in controlling.