Final answer:
Planning is a fundamental function of managers that involves setting objectives and determining the actions to achieve them. It plays a crucial role in government, ensuring the alignment of activities with a broader vision, cohesion among municipalities, and the fulfillment of major societal purposes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Planning, in the context of the functions of managers, refers to the process of setting objectives and determining the courses of action to achieve those objectives. It involves selecting missions and objectives as well as the actions to achieve them, which requires decision-making, which is the process of selecting from among alternatives. Proper planning ensures a strategic direction and reduces uncertainties by laying down a guide for future activities.
A key aspect of government planning is to direct society towards common goals, which includes regional and statewide planning. This is particularly important as it ensures that the actions of individual municipalities are cohesive and aligned with a broader vision, preventing conflicting and contradictory outcomes. It also makes sure that regulations are consistent across different areas.
According to functionalism, planning is vital for governments as it serves major purposes, such as meeting social needs, maintaining law and order, managing international relations, and directing society. Thus, planning is fundamental to the functioning of various aspects of society.