In the scientific article the author’s deals with the reasons caused by the appearance of polyphony of the scientific opinions related to concept instrument of the social systems functions, provided by the historical aspect of their formation. On the basis of the functional approach to the analysis of the historical examples of evolution, practice and management theory it is mentioned that evolution management process first and foremost, was connected with distinction of different types of activity ( accounting, control, planning, motivation, etc. increase the functional effectiveness of different systems: social, state ,production, etc. As a result of the first attempts of the scientific background of management were connected with practice of specialization of the activity types and were defined as functions whose realization provided decision of management targets. Furthermore, it served as a basis for formation of the concept function as an action, isolated action, direction of action, etc. At the same time, opinions of the scientists, who considered definition of the concept «function» as action, didn’t correspond to the content of phenomenon to its full extent and were left without scientists’ attention. For example, definition of the function is regarded as a philosophical concept or potential necessity or necessity to act. As a result of successful practice of isolation of different activity types, has occupied its place in history of management practice, has become the reason of formation of ambiguous concept of function, as definite action and direction.