The lack of a unifying management system is one of the biggest issues facing most organizations today. A unified system links management’s goals and strategies with its external environment, and aligns its internal organization to execute. Failure to execute within a unified system is a key reason why organizations are not re-adjusting to the demands of working with reduced workforces, meeting the demands for quick return on investments, staying competitive, keeping up with rapid technological change, or competing effectively for the organisations most valued employees.
To compete (or remain relevant as departments within an organization), managers need to:
Manage from a systems perspective;
Continuously link real external needs to their organizational 
goals;
Assume responsibility for managing beyond the boundaries of their areas of responsibility;
Consistently apply the universal functions of planning, organizing, leading and controlling.
The skills to manage are under appreciated and often associated with supervision. There is a need for unified management systems within organizations in today’s complex and competitive environment.
The symptoms of management failure include management’s inability to adjust to reduced workforce, retain its best workers, compete in global environment, keeping pace with rapid technology changes, and respond to investors increasing demands for greater returns.
(Adapted from Louis Allen Worldwide publication)