Span of Control

Span of control refers to the number of employees that a manager or supervisor directly oversees. In organizational structure and design, a narrow span means a manager has few direct reports, allowing for closer supervision and support, while a wide span means a manager oversees many employees, promoting autonomy and quicker decision-making. The ideal span of control balances effective communication and oversight with employee independence, influencing the organization’s culture and efficiency. A well-defined span helps ensure clear roles, improves teamwork, and enhances overall performance within the organization.