Understanding Management by Exception (MBE)
MBE stands for "Management by Exception". It is a management style that focuses on exception handling and corrective actions, rather than routine operations. The goal of MBE is to identify and address exceptions as quickly as possible, before they become major problems.
In MBE, managers are expected to be proactive in identifying potential issues and taking corrective action before they become major problems. This approach emphasizes the importance of early detection and correction of deviations from the norm, rather than waiting for problems to arise and then trying to fix them.
MBE is often contrasted with "Management by Objectives" (MBO), which focuses on setting specific goals and objectives for employees to achieve. While MBO is more focused on achieving specific outcomes, MBE is more focused on managing the process and identifying exceptions.
The benefits of MBE include:
1. Early detection of problems: By focusing on exception handling, MBE can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.
2. Improved corrective action: By taking corrective action quickly, MBE can help to prevent small problems from becoming larger ones.
3. Increased efficiency: By focusing on exception handling, MBE can help to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
4. Better decision making: By identifying exceptions and taking corrective action, MBE can help managers make better decisions based on real-time data.
5. Improved communication: By emphasizing the importance of early detection and correction, MBE can help to improve communication between managers and employees.
The key components of MBE are:
1. Identifying exceptions: Managers must be able to identify when something is not going according to plan.
2. Taking corrective action: Once an exception has been identified, managers must take prompt and effective corrective action.
3. Monitoring and reviewing: Managers must regularly monitor and review the process to ensure that it is working effectively and that any exceptions are being addressed.
4. Communication: Good communication is essential for MBE to be successful. Managers must communicate clearly and effectively with employees about exceptions and corrective actions.
5. Continuous improvement: MBE is a continuous process, and managers must be willing to make adjustments as needed to improve the process.