Focus on management principles: A generic approach presents management principles needed in the workplace today, to ensure the sustainability of an organisation. The following topics are discussed: How management theory has evolved and the environment in which management operates; The tasks of management; Leadership, teamwork and interpersonal skills; Organisational culture, diversity management, business ethics, corporate social responsibility, organisational politics, change management and HIV/Aids in the workplace.

Focus on operational management: A generic approach gives a general overview of management principles and the general management activities needed by the operational and first-time manager in the workplace today. These principles are important for the sustainability of an organisation. The following topics are discussed: The new workplace environment; The changing role of the operational and first-time manager; Operational planning, operational decision-making and problem-solving, organising operational resources, operational control, and leadership; Employment relations in the workplace; Organisational culture, diversity management, business ethics, corporate social responsibility, organisational politics and change management in the workplace.

Fundamentals of office management is aimed specifically at students studying office management and business administration at higher education institutions, as well as employees in an office environment. The topics covered have been identified by researching the tasks and responsibilities of office professionals in different organisations in South Africa.