Prelims (Management by objectives)

Management by objectives involves formulation, performance and assessment. It concentrates attention on the accomplishment of objectives through participation of all concerned persons, that is, through team spirit. MBO is based on the assumption that people perform better when they know what is expected of them and can relate their personal goals to organizational objectives. There are characteristics of MBO such as, be a person-specific, have a designated time frame, be measurable and follow well-thought plans and long term goals.

Management by objectives refers to a formal set of procedures that begins with goal setting and continues through performance review. Managers and those they supervise act together to set common goals. Each person’s major responsibility are clearly defined in terms of measurable expected results or objectives, used by staff members in planning their work, and by both staff members and their managers for monitoring progress. 

There are different types of laboratory:

• Open laboratory
• Closed laboratory
• Reference laboratory
• POCT (Point of care testing) lab
• STAT laboratory
• Satellite

Proper collection, handling and processing of specimen are the principles of laboratory. Management by objectives requires an appropriate facilities and design which depend on its preparation, function and floor planning. Allocating space is also a part of MBO, the utilization, number of duties and testing workload.

Communication is the key factor in determining MBO's success or failure. The supervisor gives feedback and may authorize modifications to the objectives as circumstances dictate. Recognizing that objectives for MBO must be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Specific) is essential to success.

"Management is efficiency in climbing the ladder of success; leadership determines whether the ladder is leaning against the right wall."

— Stephen R. Covey

"Because a thing seems difficult for you, do not think it impossible for anyone to accomplish."