Safety Trained Supervisor in Construction (STSC) Practice Exam

What is the definition of "span of control" in management?

1. The number of managers in an organization

2. The number of subordinates a manager can supervise

3. The amount of time a manager can devote to supervision

4. The number of departments managed by a supervisor

The correct answer is: The number of subordinates a manager can supervise

The definition of "span of control" in management refers specifically to the number of subordinates a manager can effectively supervise. This concept is crucial because it impacts organizational structure and management efficiency. A manager's span of control determines how many direct reports they can oversee without sacrificing the quality of leadership and communication. An optimal span of control enhances the ability to manage teams effectively, allowing for appropriate levels of oversight and support, which is essential for maintaining productivity and meeting organizational goals. When a manager has too wide of a span of control, it can lead to challenges in providing adequate support and direction to each subordinate, potentially hindering performance. Conversely, a span that is too narrow may result in unnecessary layers of management, which can slow decision-making and reduce organizational agility. Therefore, understanding and determining the appropriate span of control is fundamental for effective management practices.