What does 'span of control' refer to?

'Span of control' specifically refers to the number of employees or subordinates who directly report to a single manager. This concept is crucial in organizational design and structure, as it influences communication, authority, and the manager's ability to supervise effectively. A narrower span of control typically allows for more direct supervision of employees, fostering closer relationships and more personalized management. Conversely, a wider span can encourage greater employee autonomy and self-management but may present challenges in supervision and support.

Understanding span of control is essential as it impacts organizational efficiency and can affect both employee morale and productivity. A manager with too many direct reports may struggle to provide adequate guidance or support, while too few can lead to underutilization of managerial resources.