This practical, student-oriented approach to the introductory management course provides readers with the tools necessary to communicate effectively, solve problems, see the big picture, and work cooperatively in teams. The Management Challenge, Managers and Entrepreneurs, The Evolution of Management Thought, The Changing Environment of Management, International Management and Cross-Cultural Competence, Management's Social and Ethical Responsibilities, Planning and Decision Making, The Basics of Planning and Project Planning, Strategic Management, Decision Making and Creative Problem Solving, Organizing and Managing Human Resources and Communicating, Organizations, Organizing for the Twenty-First Century, Human Resource Management, Communicating in the Computer Age, Motivating and Leading, Motivating Job Performance, Group Dynamics and Teamwork, Influence Processes and Leadership, Change and Conflict and Negotiation, Production and Organizational Control and Quality, Production and Organizational Control Processes, Improving Product and Service Quality.