Final answer:
Production would be considered a line function as it is directly involved in the day-to-day operations of producing goods and services, which has a direct impact on achieving the organization's goals. The correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided, production would be considered a line function. A line function is directly involved in the day-to-day operations of producing goods and services, and has a direct impact on the achievement of an organization's objectives.
Production, which involves creating goods and services, fits this description. It includes decisions that define the behavior of firms, such as the extent of labor and physical capital to use, as described in scenarios like governments hiring firms to clean up public parks.
In contrast, maintenance, public relations, and administrative services are typically considered staff functions. They support the line functions by maintaining operations, managing communications, and handling administrative tasks, but do not directly engage in the production of goods and services. The correct option is 1.