People-oriented management through use of sophisticated IT.

Byline: Akram Khatoon

The fast development of technology in all business fields, and the information technology (IT) in particular, has augmented the sophistication in customer needs, hence the survival of business as well as the life time coveted business leadership is under threat.

Information technology has made Inroads in all processes and activities of an organisation. Intensive and extensive use of IT in all processes and functions of an organisation whether commercial or non commercial has necessitated change in communication channels, decision making functions and mechanism control etc.

Therefore organisation structure has started getting flattened and taking horizontal shape. Middle management function which supports decision making done by senior management has gained more importance as middle level management is able to obtain more accurate information much faster than what was being done before the use of advanced IT technology.

Now for ensuring success, organisations' emphasis on striving for economies of scale is shifting to an innovative player in a highly competitive market through innovation and continuous improvement in existing products and services to match the fast changing demands of the market.As such leader in industry, apart from having the conventional behavioural and technical attributes need to develop strategic organisation model where management hierarchy are able to make sound and creative decisions with total precision through use of latest IT technology, which are compatible to both long and short term corporate objectives particularly relating to financial targets setting, developing new products and services, tapping the characteristics of markets and most importantly developing Human Resources with emphasis on taking care of the needs and aspirations relating to career progression and job satisfaction through involvement, participation and commitment

The business environment all over the globe being outcome of information technology have necessitated the development of Human Resources embracing fast growing technologies, which may facilitate achieving targeted goals. In other words the shift towards people oriented approach to management is gaining momentum.

People oriented management symbolises the hierarchy pattern where employees down the line find themselves a more freedom in shaping and controlling their activities and become more enthusiastic and creative, which is essential for well being of an...