The Four Key Functions That Make Businesses Run

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This educational video demystifies the internal workings of a business by breaking down the four primary functions that keep companies running: Operations, Marketing, Finance, and Human Resources. Using relatable anecdotes and clear examples, the host explains that a business isn't just a "black box" that produces goods, but a complex system where different departments must collaborate to succeed. The content explores the specific responsibilities of each function, from creating products on an assembly line to managing budgets and hiring staff. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to the concept of "interdependence," illustrating how these departments rely on one another—like how Marketing needs Operations to actually make what they sell, and how Finance needs HR to manage payroll. The video also contrasts how these functions look in different business structures, from a simple sole proprietorship like a lemonade stand to complex multinational corporations. Teachers can use this video as a foundational lesson for economics, business studies, or career exploration units. It provides a clear framework for understanding organizational structures and introduces essential vocabulary. The built-in pause points with guiding questions allow for immediate classroom discussion and application, helping students connect abstract business concepts to the real-world jobs of adults they know.