Do you think management has the characteristics of a full fledged profession?
Although management does not satisfy all the criteria of a profession, however, it does posses some of the characteristics that qualify it to be a profession.
The following are the characteristics of management as a profession.
i. Systemised Knowledge- Management has a systemised and well-defined body of knowledge. It is based on several theories and principles that are developed over years with continuous experimentation and observation. The knowledge of management can be attained through various colleges, institutes and books. Management as a course is offered by many colleges and professional institutes. For example, in India, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) is the premier institute of management.
ii. Restriction to Entry- Management satisfies this criterion only to some extent. As against other professions such a doctor or a lawyer, no specific qualification or degree are required to be a manager. That is, any person holding any degree or qualification can be a manager. However, the entry is restricted as persons with professional management degree or diploma are preferred.
iii. Professional Association- A professional has to be a member or should be associated with a statutory body which is responsible for stating the laws and authorities of that profession. For example, to practice Chartered Accountancy, a person has to be a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. Similarly, management is also affiliated to a professional association that regulates the functions of the members. In India, the AIMA (All India Management Association) is an association for the managers. But, it is not requisite for managers to be a part of them.
iv. Code of Conduct: Any professional has to abide by the rules and regulations developed by the apex authority which regulates the functions of that profession. There is a set Code of Conduct which that professional has to follow for smooth functioning. In management also we have a specific Code of Conduct but, it is not obligatory for the managers to abide by them. Unlike profession where the members violating the rules are punished, no such penalizing is done in management if the managers do not obey the standards set by AIMA or AIPMA. However, alike other profession through management also the society is served. Through effective and efficient management of the organisation, quality products and services are provided at reasonable prices.
Thus, it can be said that to some extent management satisfies the criterion for it to be called a profession.