Span of Control (Organisational Structure)

What is the Span of Control?

The span of control is the number of employees for whom a manager is responsible/in control of at any one time

What determines the span of control?

• Nature of the work involved (e.g. the need for supervision)

• Degree of autonomy granted to employees

• Number of layers in the hierarchy. Flatter structures have encouraged wider spans of control

What are the features of a Narrow Span of Control?

• Allows for closer supervision of employees

• More layers in the hierarchy may be required

• Helps more effective communication

What are the features of a Wide Span of Control?

• Gives subordinates the chance for more autonomy

• More appropriate if labour costs are significant- reduce the number of managers

• Consistent with flatter structures