Definition: Mobilizing employees to execute the plan—assigning work, solving routine problems, resolving conflicts, communicating effectively.
Four Components
| Component | What It Means | Example (TSN) |
|---|---|---|
| Work assignments | Who does what | Assigning producer to lead Stanley Cup coverage |
| Routine problem solving | Day-to-day issues | Handling overtime game that disrupts next broadcast |
| Conflict resolution | Disputes between people | Arbitrating disagreement on editorial direction |
| Effective communication | Information flow | Pre-broadcast team meetings, daily rundowns |
Key Insight
Directing is here and now. It deals with routine execution, not strategic direction. If you’re deciding what to do, that’s planning. If you’re getting people to do it, that’s directing.
TSN Examples
- Assigning production crews and on-air talent to specific broadcasts
- Resolving scheduling conflicts when live events run long
- Communicating broadcast expectations and rundowns before going live
Common Trap
Including external stakeholders. This function focuses on employees. Advertiser negotiations or viewer feedback are inputs to other functions—not directing and motivating.
North: Where this comes from
- What are the Four Management Functions (parent framework)
- [[Management)](FMGT/Planning (Management|Planning (Management)]].md) (what’s being directed toward)
East: What opposes this?
- [[Management)](FMGT/Planning (Management|Planning (Management)]].md) (future-oriented vs. here-and-now)
- [[Management)](FMGT/Controlling (Management|Controlling (Management)]].md) (evaluating vs. executing)
South: Where this leads
- [[Management)](FMGT/Controlling (Management|Controlling (Management)]].md) (measuring what was directed)
- Team Performance (outcome of effective directing)
West: What’s similar?
- Project Management (also assigns work, resolves issues)
- Operations Management (day-to-day execution focus)