Overview. In simple words, span of control means the manageable number of subordinates of a superior. The bigger the number of the subordinates a manager controls, the broader is her/his span of control.
What is a narrow span of control?
Narrow: When the span of control is narrow, the manager has only a few workers to supervise. This span of control creates a taller structure which leads to having many levels of management. Also, supervising fewer employees does not over stress the manager which allows the manager to function efficiently.
What is narrow span of control with example?
It can be of two types, such as a narrow and a wide span of control. It is considered to be narrow when a manager manages 2 to 4 subordinates. Advantages of a narrow span of control. The manager can supervisor each of his subordinates intimately.
What are advantages and disadvantages of narrow span of control?
The advantages of a narrow span of control include the following: A narrow span of control increases the level of contact between the manager and members of the team. The increased contact improves the ability to supervise activities carried out by the employees effectively, which may increase productivity.
Which is better a wide or narrow span of control?
Narrow span of controlling prevents cross-functional problem-solving. On the other hand, a span of control is wide when a manager manages or controls up to 20 subordinates. Advantages of a wide span of control. In a wide span of control, subordinates are more independent.
What are some examples of span of control?
Several factors affect the span of control of a manager, such as the nature of work, capabilities of the manager, capabilities of employees to be managed, and the responsibilities of a manager. It can be of two types, such as a narrow and a wide span of control. It is considered to be narrow when a manager manages 2 to 4 subordinates.
What are the effects of a wide span of Management?
Span of management directly affects the number of levels in the organization. Wider spans of management lead to flat organizations whereas narrow spans of management result in tall organizational structures. A narrow span, which results in many levels in the organization, creates problems both in terms of cost and efficiency.
How does span of control affect organisational structure?
The addition of new hierarchical layers makes the organisational structure steeper. A large Span of Control leads to a flatter organisational structure, which results in lower costs. A small span of control creates a steeper organisational structure, which requires more managers and which will consequently be more expensive for the organisation.
