The term supervision can be understood in two ways. Firstly, it can be understood as an element of directing and secondly, as a function performed by supervisors in the organizational hierarchy. Supervision being an element of directing, every manager in the organization supervises his/her subordinates. Secondly, supervision can be understood as the function to be performed by supervisor, a managerial position in the organization hierarchy at the operative level i.e., immediately above the worker.
Importance of Supervision
The importance of supervision can be understood from multiple roles performed by a supervisor. These are explained below:
(i) Supervisor maintains day-to-day contact and maintains friendly relations with workers. A good supervisor acts as a guide, friend and philosopher to the workers.
(ii) Supervisor acts as a link between workers and management. He conveys management ideas to the workers on one hand and workers problems to the management on the other.
(iii) Supervisor plays a key role in maintaining group unity among workers placed under his control.
(iv) Supervisor ensures performance of work according to the targets set. He takes responsibility for task achievement and motivates his workers effectively.
(v) Supervisor provides good on the job training to the workers and employees.
(vi) Supervisory leadership plays a key role in influencing the workers in the organisation.
(vii) A good supervisor analyses the work performed and gives feedback to the workers. He suggests ways and means of developing work skills.
