Public Administration N5 -Revision Notes – June 2016 Questions and Answers

1.1.1 Policy –

A declaration of intent to do something. Policies are formal statements that guide decision-making and actions within an organization, outlining the intended course of action in various situations.

1.1.2 Organising –

Consists of grouping similar functions and allocating them to different organizations in a way that aligns workers’ efforts toward achieving objectives. It involves structuring tasks, responsibilities, and resources for optimal efficiency.

1.1.3 Control –

To ensure activities are carried out effectively and efficiently. Control involves monitoring, measuring, and comparing actual performance against set standards to identify deviations and take corrective actions.

1.1.4 Unity of Command

– Each worker should have only one direct supervisor. This principle ensures clarity in reporting relationships, reducing confusion and potential conflicts in decision-making.

1.1.5 Span of Control

– Refers to the number of subordinates who can be managed effectively by one person. It determines the optimal supervisor-subordinate ratio to maintain effective communication and supervision.

1.1.6 Delegates

– Refers to the transfer or allocation of power to subordinates. Delegation empowers individuals to make decisions within their authority, enhancing efficiency and development.

1.1.7 Budget –

Estimated income and expenditure over a certain period. Budgets are financial plans that help organizations allocate resources, set priorities, and monitor financial performance.

1.1.8 Recruitment –

Refers to the process of finding the right candidate for a job. Recruitment involves sourcing, evaluating, and selecting individuals who possess the necessary skills and qualifications.

1.1.9 Induction –

Installing a person into an organization, making them a part of it. Induction programs familiarize new employees with the organization’s culture, policies, procedures, and work environment.

1.1.10 Subpoena –

A letter commanding a person to appear in court. A subpoena is a legal document that requires an individual to provide testimony or evidence in a legal proceeding.

 

1.2  Indicate whether the following statements are TRUE or FALSE.

 

1.2.1 – Eskom plays an important role in delivering an essential service.  TRUE

1.2.2 – An Accounting Officer is appointed in terms of the Exchequer Act of 1975.  TRUE

1.2.3 – Tax imposed by the government is compulsory. TRUE

1.2.4 – Parliament can approve or disapprove the state budget. TRUE

1.2.5 – The Minister of Finance is responsible for the South African Reserve Bank. FALSE

Name the FIVE generic administration functions.

here are the FIVE generic administration functions along with examples:

  1. Policy making: Creating guidelines for employee behavior, such as a workplace code of conduct.
  2. Organising: Structuring tasks and responsibilities, like assigning roles in a project team.
  3. Staffing: Recruiting and selecting employees for specific positions, e.g., hiring a new marketing manager.
  4. Control: Monitoring and evaluating performance against set standards, as seen in regular performance reviews.
  5. Work procedure: Establishing step-by-step processes, like outlining how to process customer orders.