Directing in management entails guiding, leading, supervising, and motivating staff towards achieving organizational objectives. Its core attributes are:
- It triggers action, marking the commencement of actual implementation.
- It is pervasive across all organizational levels, with guidance being a constant.
- It follows a hierarchical path, with superiors directing subordinates.
However, the assertion that directing guarantees activities align with plans is incorrect. This responsibility primarily falls under "controlling," which involves performance monitoring, comparison against the plan, and implementing corrective measures as necessary.
Consequently, Option (C) does not characterize directing.
Final Answer: (C) Directing ensures that activities are performed as per plans.