Control Frequency and Methods

There are 10 specific methods you can use to measure and control performance. These 10 methods fall into three categories of control frequency: constant, periodic, and occasional. Constant controls are in continuous use. The real issue is the degree of internal self-control employees are given versus external control imposed by managers. With the trend of participative management, managers are using more self-leadership.

Clan or group control is a form of human resources control in which the organization relies heavily on its culture and norms to ensure specific behaviors through peer pressure. Free-loaders can prevent meeting objectives. Policies, procedures, and rules are developed to influence employees’ behavior in recurring, predictable situations. Standards are similar to standing plans that are in constant use to maintain control.

Periodic controls are used on a regular, fixed basis, such as once per hour or day, every week, or at the end of the month, quarter, or year. Regular meetings and reports. Regular reports can be oral or written. Regularly scheduled meetings are common in all organizations. These meetings may be scheduled daily, weekly, or monthly. Budgets. Budgets are among the most widely used control tools. The preparation of a new budget is a preliminary control. As the year progresses, the budget becomes a concurrent control.