Managementfragen

Managementfragen is a term used in German-speaking management literature to denote the fundamental questions that guide managerial thinking and decision making. The concept provides a framework for structuring analysis by focusing on goals, resources, processes, and outcomes. Managementfragen are not statements of problems themselves but prompts that help managers frame issues clearly and assess trade-offs.

Typically, managementfragen address several interrelated areas: strategic orientation and goals (What is our objective? What market position do we aim for? How do we create competitive advantage?), organization and governance (Who is responsible for decisions? How should authority be allocated? What structures support coordination?), operations and resources (What activities must be performed? Which resources and capabilities are required? How are they acquired and deployed?), performance and risk (What metrics indicate success? What are key risks and how are they mitigated? How does learning occur?), and change and implementation (What initiatives are needed? What is the timeline and the plan for execution? How do we monitor progress and adjust?).

In practice, managementfragen are used in strategy workshops, consulting projects, and managerial training to frame discussions, guide analysis, and ensure alignment among stakeholders. They complement other tools such as business models, Balanced Scorecards, and governance frameworks.

See also: management by objectives, strategic planning, decision theory, governance.