Wide or Narrow: The Impact of Span of Control on Businesses
The span of control, the number of subordinates a manager oversees, significantly impacts businesses. Its width affects productivity, decision-making, and communication, with both advantages and disadvantages.
Wide spans of control, common in young, flat organizations, enable swift decision-making and communication. However, they can lead to decreased productivity and loss of control. For instance, a manager with 15 direct reports may struggle to monitor each individual's work closely.
Conversely, narrow spans of control, prevalent in established, tall organizations, offer better control and productivity. A manager with 5 subordinates can provide closer guidance. Yet, this can result in slower decision-making and lower morale due to increased hierarchy and slower communication.
The optimal span of control varies by organization and situation. Wide spans can boost flexibility and motivation, while narrow spans ensure better control and productivity. Balancing these factors is key to effective management.
