A Life Cycle Approach to Management by Objectives

Abstract

In this article the authors examine the management practice known as management by objectives (MBO) and discuss how the process is designed to work. They note that many companies abandon MBO strategies prematurely due to their concern for immediate results. They compare the MBO process to the introduction of a new technology, a process that takes time. The process begins with the introduction phase, moves through a growth phase and eventually reaches a phase where the MBO plan is effective. They assert that this developmental process is seen in a variety of organizational change processes. They discuss the necessity of this process and note that all strategies must be given time in order to reach maturity and optimal effectiveness.