Functional Areas Within Business Essay Example
Functional Areas Within Business Essay Example

Functional Areas Within Business Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (913 words)
  • Published: December 10, 2018
  • Type: Research Paper
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To attain their goals and objectives, it is imperative for businesses to have a well-organized structure. Grouping specific activities together ensures the smooth execution of regular functions. The efficiency of the business depends on completing all key functions, which are categorized into seven functional areas.

The Human Resources department, commonly known as HR, at Sainsbury's has a specific goal. It is responsible for managing the workforce and prioritizing the well-being and development of employees. HR ensures that suitable working conditions and necessary training are provided while maintaining a safe work environment. Additionally, HR determines annual promotions and bonuses based on individual performance. If you are interested in working at Sainsbury's, you would contact HR for job applications as they also organize staff training sessions.

Finance

The Finance department oversees the management and monitoring of funds within a company, with a focus on addr

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essing issues promptly. By utilizing computers and information technology, financial transactions can be recorded and assessed efficiently. This department is responsible for generating financial statements, distributing employee compensation, as well as securing funding and assets.

They ensure that all money is accounted for in receipts and they ensure that suppliers and employees are paid. They also handle administration and IT support, dealing with daily information influx and providing prompt responses to customers and suppliers. Additionally, they store the necessary paperwork securely for future reference.

Computers are essential for businesses as they help with various administrative tasks that are necessary for smooth operations. They play a vital role in facilitating communication within the organization. In case of any issues, IT support ensures quick and efficient resolution to minimize disruptions to business operations. Additionally, computers handle clerical work, cleanin

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and maintenance, ensure health and safety protocols, provide security, and offer support for software applications, electronic communications, and electronic transactions.

Operations

The primary goal of operations is to optimize resource utilization in order to produce goods and services efficiently.

The role of the operations manager in a service-oriented business is to ensure smooth operations. This includes sourcing raw materials, acquiring equipment such as computers and office supplies, identifying potential locations for new stores, procuring resources, and managing the organization.

Marketing and Sales

The marketing and sales team's main responsibility is to promote awareness of the business among customers. Their duties may include market research, advertising, sales promotions, as well as creating and developing a website or online store. The sales department is responsible for selling products to customers and maintaining sales records.

Market research involves identifying customers' needs and opinions on current and potential products and services. Advertising includes tactics like publicity campaigns, sales promotions, personal selling, and promotion. Sales efforts strive to actively engage buyers and convert their interest into purchases. Customer Service offers information, advice, after-sales support, and addresses customer complaints. It is essential for staff members to have knowledge of consumer laws that safeguard customers' rights.

Customers are essential for the success of a business as they contribute to its revenue through various services, including information, advice, credit facilitation, goods delivery, and after-sales support.

Research and Development

The Research and Development department's main objective is to develop new products, improve existing ones, and expand product lines. Technological advancements, changes in customer preferences, or innovative ideas drive these advancements.

The goal is to work together with designers to create a product that is both easy for users and cost-effective, while also staying competitive

in terms of pricing. Sainsbury's aims for constant improvement in the design and quality of their products. It is crucial for all these important aspects to work well together in order to ensure effective operations at Sainsbury's. Customer Service plays a critical role as it gives customers a platform to express complaints, seek guidance, and get information. Without this means of communication, valuable feedback would not reach Sainsbury's, hindering research and development efforts aimed at using this feedback to improve products for the benefit of customers.

The existence of research and development is essential for the operations of Sainsbury's. Without it, there would be no materials to create new products, rendering operations unnecessary. As a result, Sainsbury's would be unable to open more stores or expand their business. This lack of funds would lead to the Finance department ceasing to exist, ultimately resulting in the entire business disappearing.

Communications:

Communications involve the exchange of messages between two or more individuals, groups, or organizations. Internal communication refers to the transmission of messages within a group or organization. Intranet serves as a form of internal communication.

External communication involves sending messages to businesses or organizations outside of a company. These interactions typically happen through email or telephone calls. Communication within a business is essential because without it, the company would face negative consequences. For example, if a decision is made to run a 2 for 2 promotion but not properly communicated to the employees responsible for implementation or product labeling, the promotion will not be executed as intended. This would ultimately disappoint customers who were expecting to benefit from the advertised offer.

Effective communication is crucial for every business. Failure to communicate

about promotions to other Sainsbury's stores would lead to upset customers in other areas. Lack of communication would hinder the overall efficiency of Sainsbury's operations. It is important for businesses to engage in different types of communication, such as with suppliers, as without communication, suppliers would not deliver the necessary items required by the business.

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