A Synthesis and An Analysis of Definitions of Management

Abstract

This paper offers a streamlined synthesis and analysis of Management definitions extracted from twenty authoritative textbooks. Employing qualitative content analysis, the study identifies fifty-four distinct characteristics within these definitions, which are then consolidated and organized into six thematic categories: process-related, people-related, resource-related, environmental and contextual, responsibility and accountability, and disciplinary and occupational categories. Findings indicate that despite differences in wording and focus, the definitions converge on a shared conceptual core portraying Management as a continuous, systematic, and goal-oriented process involving human coordination, effective resource utilization, and adaptation to contextual factors. Based on this thematic integration, the paper proposes a comprehensive synthesized definition of Management. The results contribute theoretical clarity to academic research and offer valuable insights for Management education. Ultimately, the study concludes that Management is a multifaceted discipline marked by relational complexity, environmental responsiveness, and accountability for organizational outcomes.

Key Words: Characteristics, Definition, Management, Organizational Management, Synthesized Definition