Which management concept describes the range of control a manager has?

The term that describes the range of control a manager has is known as span of control. This concept refers to the number of subordinates or employees that a manager is responsible for overseeing directly. A wider span of control means that a manager supervises more employees, while a narrower span means fewer direct reports. The concept is essential in organizational structure as it affects communication, supervision, and the overall efficiency within a team or organization.

Managing an optimal span of control is crucial because it influences managerial effectiveness and employee performance. If the span is too wide, a manager may struggle to effectively supervise and support their team, leading to potential decreases in productivity and employee morale. Conversely, if the span is too narrow, it may result in unnecessary layers of management and increased costs without substantial benefits.

Understanding the span of control allows organizations to structure their teams in a way that balances efficient management with effective leadership, promoting a healthy working environment and ensuring that communication flows effectively between various levels of the organization.