Difference Between Administration and Management

Key Difference

Administration and management are key functions in any organization but differ in their primary focus and scope of activities. Administration typically refers to the top-level planning and decision-making activities that set the course for the organization. Management, however, deals with the day-to-day operations and execution of the organization’s policies and strategies.

Comparative Analysis

1. Scope and Focus:
   • Administration: Broad, strategic planning and policy-making.
   • Management: Operational, implementing, and executing plans.
2. Role in Organization:
   • Administration: Sets goals, and makes critical decisions.
   • Management: Oversees staff, and manages resources to meet goals.
3. Level of Authority:
   • Administration: Higher-level, often includes board members, directors.
   • Management: Middle to lower-level, includes managers, supervisors.
4. Skill Set and Perspective:
   • Administration: Requires a visionary perspective, leadership skills.
   • Management: Needs organizational, problem-solving skills.
5. Impact on Organization:
   • Administration: Influences long-term success, direction.
   • Management: Affects daily functioning, short-term objectives.

Table Summary

Feature	Administration	Management
Scope	Strategic planning	Operational execution
Role	Goal setting, decision-making	Staff oversight, resource management
Authority Level	Higher-level	Middle to lower-level
Skills	Visionary, leadership	Organizational, problem-solving
Impact	Long-term success	Daily functioning

While administration and management are integral to organizational success, they play distinct roles. Administration focuses on strategic direction and policymaking, while management is concerned with implementing these strategies and overseeing daily operations.