Recruiters for Littleton University were under extreme pressure to meet their objective of a 10% increase in the size of the freshman class. As a result, they admitted many students who were not qualified and who failed to perform in classes. This is an example of which problem associated with control systems?

Question

A. Overemphasis on one instead of multiple approaches.
B. Overemphasis on paperwork.
C. Overemphasis on means instead of ends.
D. Too much control.
E. Too little participation.

Answer 1

C. Overemphasis on means instead of ends.

One barrier to successful control systems is overemphasis on means instead of ends. Control activities are not ends in themselves but the means to eliminating problems. Too much emphasis on means can lead to game playing, or "beating the system," as managers and employees manipulate data to seem to fulfill short-run goals instead of the organization's strategic plan.