Span of Control in Organizational Management

Understanding Span of Control in Management

Final answer:

True, the span of control refers to the number of subordinates that a manager can effectively supervise. It is crucial in hierarchical organizations for effective management but may vary in modern workplaces with flatter structures and more collaborative approaches.

Explanation:

The statement that span of control refers primarily to the number of workers that an individual manager can effectively supervise is True. Span of control is a concept used to describe the amount of subordinates under the direct supervision of a manager. This number can vary depending on the structure of the organization, managerial capacity, and the nature of the work being done.

In a hierarchical organization, the chain of command is clear and each individual knows who they report to. In such organizations, all follow a specified chain of command, and the span of control plays a key role in ensuring that each manager has an optimal number of direct reports to allow for effective management and supervision. This concept aligns with Theory X, which assumes that employees require oversight and direction.

However, it's important to recognize that organizational structures are changing. In many modern workplaces, a flatter organizational structure is becoming more prevalent, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration over rigid hierarchies. Managers in these environments might have a broader span of control, but they work in a more cooperative manner with their teams to accomplish the organization's objectives.