span of control

Definition

The number of direct reports a manager supervises, indicating how thinly their attention and favoritism will be spread. Too many subordinates means nobody gets managed; too few means micromanagement hell.

Example Usage

With a span of control of twenty people, my manager basically just forwards emails and hopes for the best.

Origin

Military management principle dating back to ancient Roman army organization

Fun Fact

The ideal span of control is hotly debated, but research suggests 5-9 direct reports for complex work and up to 15 for routine tasks.

Source: Organizational structure and management theory

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twyms

that's what your mom said...