Final Answer:
The final answer is B) Planning because managers primarily select appropriate goals for the organization during the planning process, outlining objectives and strategies for achieving them.
Step-by-step explanation:
Managers select appropriate goals for the organization primarily within the managerial task of planning. Planning involves setting objectives, determining the best course of action, and outlining strategies to achieve these goals. This phase is crucial in defining the direction of the organization, identifying priorities, and allocating resources efficiently to meet those objectives.
In the planning process, managers analyze the current situation, assess the organization's strengths and weaknesses, evaluate opportunities and threats in the external environment, and then set realistic and achievable goals. These goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART criteria) to provide a clear roadmap for the organization's actions. Managers also devise action plans outlining the steps and resources needed to reach these goals within the specified timeframe.
Through planning, managers decide what the organization aims to achieve and how it will be accomplished. For instance, if a company's goal is to increase sales by 20% in the next fiscal year, planning involves breaking down this objective into actionable steps—such as enhancing marketing strategies, expanding distribution channels, or improving product offerings—to attain the desired outcome.
Therefore, within the managerial tasks, selecting appropriate goals for the organization is a crucial aspect encapsulated within the broader function of planning.