Which of the following ‘Management Functions’ are closely related?

Correct option is C

The management functions Planning and Controlling are the most closely related and interdependent.
Planning involves setting objectives and deciding in advance what needs to be done. Controlling involves monitoring performance, comparing it with the plan, and taking corrective action where required.
These two functions are known as the "twin functions" of management because:
· Controlling measures how well the plans are executed.
· Controlling cannot exist without planning, as performance is compared against pre-set standards.
· Planning also depends on controlling, because controlling provides feedback for better future plans.
Thus, the correct answer is (c) Planning and Controlling.
Information Booster
1. Planning is a forward-looking function; controlling is backward-looking but also corrective for the future.
2. Planning sets objectives; controlling ensures their achievement.
3. Controlling reveals deviations and supports effective resource utilisation.
4. Planning and controlling form a continuous cycle in the management process.
5. Without effective controlling, planning becomes meaningless, and without planning, controlling has no standards to compare against.