Which term describes the number of subordinates reporting to a manager?

Which term describes the number of subordinates reporting to a manager?

• A. Chain of Command
• B. Hierarchy
• C. Span of Control
• D. Workload

Answer: (C)

The number of subordinates reporting to a manager is called the span of control. This concept captures how many direct reports a manager oversees, which influences supervision style, communication, and organizational structure. A wide span of control means many subordinates per manager, which can flatten the hierarchy and reduce costs but may limit close guidance. A narrow span of control means fewer subordinates per manager, leading to more layers and closer supervision. The other terms describe different ideas: chain of command is the path of authority from top to bottom, hierarchy is the arrangement of levels, and workload refers to the amount of work assigned.

The number of subordinates reporting to a manager is called the span of control. This concept captures how many direct reports a manager oversees, which influences supervision style, communication, and organizational structure. A wide span of control means many subordinates per manager, which can flatten the hierarchy and reduce costs but may limit close guidance. A narrow span of control means fewer subordinates per manager, leading to more layers and closer supervision. The other terms describe different ideas: chain of command is the path of authority from top to bottom, hierarchy is the arrangement of levels, and workload refers to the amount of work assigned.