What is the primary function of management?

The primary function of management is to plan, organize, lead, and direct resources efficiently. This answer captures the essence of management by encompassing the core activities that managers engage in to ensure that organizational goals are met effectively and efficiently.

Planning involves setting objectives and determining a course of action for achieving those objectives, ensuring that the organization's direction is clear. Organizing refers to arranging resources, such as human, financial, and physical assets, in a way that maximizes efficiency and effectiveness. Leading is about motivating and guiding employees toward achieving the organization’s goals, while directing involves overseeing daily operations and ensuring that tasks are accomplished as intended.

By focusing on these functions, management can coordinate activities, allocate resources effectively, and foster a productive work environment, which ultimately drives the success of the organization. The other options do not reflect a comprehensive understanding of management's role; for instance, merely inspiring creativity does not encompass all managerial responsibilities, nor do strict rules or avoiding accountability contribute to effective management practices.