Corrective action

Correct answer: A. Controlling

The governing concept is controlling, whose final purpose is to keep actual performance aligned with planned standards. The process generally involves setting standards, measuring actual performance, comparing actual results with the standards, analysing deviations, and taking corrective action where necessary. If a production error, cost overrun, or delay is detected, the manager may change the method, provide guidance, reallocate resources, or revise the schedule so that performance returns to the desired path. Organising arranges work and authority, staffing supplies suitable employees, and planning sets future objectives; none of these primarily corrects a detected deviation. Therefore option A is correct because corrective action is a defining stage of controlling.