2. Introduction
When applied to management span refers to the number of
subordinates a manager or supervisor can supervise manage or
control effectively and efficiently .
If the group of subordinates placed under one manager is too
large . It will be difficult to effectively manage them and the
desired results cannot be achieved.
On the other hand if the group of subordinates is too small
the time, energy & abilities of supervisor are not utilized fully
and the task may not be accomplished .
There are two different approaches to determining the
appropriate span of management:
1. wide span
2. Narrow span
3. This approach involves a larger
number of subordinates per
manager, which allows for more
autonomy and decentralized
decision-making. This approach
may be appropriate when the work
is less complex, the subordinates
are more experienced and can
work independently, or the
manager has more experience and
can delegate effectively.
Wide span of management
Wide span
4. MERITS
ECONOMICAL
DIRECT CONTACT WITH
SUBORDINATES
OPPORTNITIES FOR SUBORDINATES
DEVELOPMENT
DEMERITS
REDUCES QUALITY OF
PERFORMANCE
HIGHLY QUALIFIED AND WELL
EXPERIENCED STAFF IS NEEDED
ZEAL AND INITIATIVE OF THE
WORKERS IS KILLED
Wide span of management
5. This approach involves a smaller
number of subordinates per
manager, which allows for more
direct supervision and control. This
approach may be appropriate when
the work is complex, the
subordinates require more
guidance, or the manager has
limited experience.
Narrow span of management
Narrow span
6. MERITS
OFFERS TIGHT CONTROL AND
SUPERVISION
PERSONAL CONTACT BETWEEN
MANAGERS
MANAGERIAL EFFECINCY IS
INCREASED
DEMERITS
CREATES MORE LEVELS OF
MANAGEMENT WHICH IS EXPENSIVE
AS WELL AS TIME CONSUMING
CREATES COMPLEXITY IN
COMMUNICATION
LEADS TO EXCESSIVE
ADMINISTRATIVE
AND OVERHEAD COST
Narrow span of management
7. • The capacity & ability of executive :- This method involves assessing the manager's level of
experience, skills, and competency. A manager who is highly competent and experienced may
be able to manage a larger number of subordinates effectively.
• Competence and training of subordinates :- When subordinates are highly competent and
well-trained, they may require less supervision and guidance, allowing a manager to
effectively supervise a larger number of subordinates
• Nature of work :- If the work is routine or repetitive, a manager may be able to supervise a
larger number of subordinates, as less direct supervision and guidance may be required. And
if the work involves complex and a variety of jobs and such the number of subordinates that
can be effectively managed should be limited to a less numbers .
Factors Determining The Span Of Management
8. .
• Time available for supervision :- the capacity of a person to supervise and control a
large number of persons is also limited on account of time at his disposal to
supervise .
• Degree of decentralization and extent of delegation :- Decentralization refers to
the distribution of decision-making authority throughout an organization,
while delegation refers to the assignment of tasks and responsibilities to
subordinates.
• Effectiveness of communication system :- Effective communication is essential
for ensuring that subordinates receive clear instructions and guidance, are
aware of their roles and responsibilities, and are able to provide feedback
to the manager.
9. .
• Quality of planning:-When planning is of high quality, a manager may be able to
supervise a larger number of subordinates. This is because a well-planned project or
task can provide clear guidance and direction to subordinates, reducing the need for
direct supervision and guidance from the manager.
• Assistance of experts:- Experts can provide specialized knowledge and skills that
may be required to complete certain tasks or projects. When the expertise of these
specialists is utilized effectively, a manager may be able to supervise a larger number
of subordinates.
• Control mechanism :- Control mechanisms are the tools and procedures
that managers use to monitor and evaluate the performance of
subordinates and ensure that work is being done effectively and
efficiently.