A manager implemented a new rule without explaining it to employees and resistance increased. Which deficiency is most clear?

Correct answer: Lack of communication and directing

The governing idea is that directing includes communicating instructions, explaining their purpose, guiding employees, and motivating them to accept and perform required work. When a manager imposes a rule without explanation, employees may misunderstand its need, feel excluded, or fear its consequences; resistance can therefore increase. Option A identifies the clearest deficiency: inadequate communication during directing. A shortage of raw material could affect production, and lack of a bank loan or office building could create financial or infrastructural problems, but none explains resistance to an unexplained rule. Thus A is the only relevant answer.