a. Wide span of control- It is one in which a manager can supervise and control effectively a large group of persons at one time. The features of this span are:-
i. Less overhead cost of supervision ii. Prompt response from the employees iii. Better communication iv. Better supervision
v. Better co-ordination vi. Suitable for repetitive jobs
According to this span, one manager can effectively and efficiently handle a large number of subordinates at one time.
b. Narrow span of control- According to this span, the work and authority is divided amongst many subordinates and a manager doesn't supervises and control a very big group of people under him. The manager according to a narrow span supervises a selected number of employees at one time. The features are:-
i. Work which requires tight control and supervision, for example, handicrafts, ivory work, etc. which requires craftsmanship, there narrow span is more helpful. ii. Co-ordination is difficult to be achieved. iii. Communication gaps can come. iv. Messages can be distorted.
v. Specialization work can be achieved.
Factors influencing Span of Control
1. Managerial abilities- In the concerns where managers are capable, qualified and experienced, wide span of control is always helpful.
2. Competence of subordinates- Where the subordinates are capable and competent and their understanding levels are proper, the subordinates tend to very frequently