All of the following are basic activities of management EXCEPT:

The basic activities of management typically include planning, organizing, staffing, leading (or motivating), and controlling. These activities are essential for effectively managing an organization and achieving its goals and objectives.

Staffing involves the recruitment, selection, training, and development of employees, ensuring that the organization has the right people in the right positions. Motivating, often discussed as part of leading, refers to inspiring and encouraging employees to perform at their best, which is crucial for maintaining high morale and productivity. Organizing is the process of arranging resources and tasks to implement the plan effectively, ensuring structured workflow and efficient allocation of resources.

On the other hand, consolidating is not traditionally recognized as a fundamental activity of management. While consolidation may be a part of particular tasks or projects within an organization, it does not represent a core function like the other activities mentioned. Therefore, identifying consolidating as the exception reflects an understanding of the fundamental roles and responsibilities of management.