'Supervision' can be understood in two ways.
Firstly, it is an element of directing.
Secondly, it is a function performed by supervisors in the organizational hierarchy.
Supervision as an element of directing:
Every manager supervises his/her subordinates. Supervision is the process of guiding the efforts of employees and other resources to accomplish the desired objectives. It means overseeing the activities of the subordinates and giving them instructions to ensure optimum utilisation of resources and achievement of work targets.
Supervision as a function performed by supervisor:
Supervision is also a function performed by the supervisor, the lowest managerial position in the organisation hierarchy (at the operative level) which is immediately above the worker. He is directly related with workers who are responsible for ultimate achievement of goals.
Importance of Supervision
The importance of supervision can be understood from multiple roles performed by a supervisor. These are explained below:
- As a guide, friend and philosopher:
Supervisor maintains day-to-day contact and maintains friendly relations with workers. A good supervisor acts as a guide, friend and philosopher to the workers.
- As a link between workers and management:
Supervisor acts as a link between workers and management. He conveys management ideas to the workers as well as workers' problems to the management. His role helps to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts between management and workers.
- Maintaining group unity :
Supervisor plays a key role in maintaining group unity among workers placed under his control. He helps in resolving the internal differences and maintains harmony among workers.
- Ensuring performance of work:
Supervisor ensures performance of work according to the targets set. He not only takes the responsibility for completion of tasks but also motivates his workers effectively.
- Training to the workers:
Supervisor can provide good on-the-job training to the workers and employees. A skilled and knowledgeable supervisor is in a very good position to build efficient team of workers.
- Leadership role :
Supervisory leadership plays an important role in influencing the workers. A supervisor with good leadership qualities can boost the morale of workers and improve their performance.
7. Solution to worker problems:
A good supervisor analyses the work performed and gives feedback to the workers. He solves their problems and suggests ways to improve their work skills.