Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

What does the term "span of control" refer to?

1. The number of subordinates directly reporting to a manager.

2. The principle that each person should report to only one supervisor.

3. The steps of a process to achieve a goal.

4. The structure that links all staff with higher levels of staff.

The correct answer is: The number of subordinates directly reporting to a manager.

The term "span of control" primarily refers to the number of subordinates directly reporting to a manager. This concept is central in organizational management and directly affects how an organization functions. When a manager has a wider span of control, they are responsible for overseeing a larger number of employees. This can lead to increased levels of autonomy for subordinates but may also challenge the manager's ability to offer effective support and oversight. Understanding the span of control is essential for effective organizational structure. A narrower span allows for closer supervision and more direct communication between the manager and their subordinates, while a wider span promotes delegation and may empower staff by encouraging self-management. Thus, the correct understanding of this term helps in deciding optimal management structures and staffing levels in an organization. The other terms relate to different aspects of organizational management. The principle regarding each person reporting to only one supervisor addresses reporting relationships and avoids confusion in authority, while the steps of a process relate to operational procedures and strategies rather than control dynamics. Finally, the structure linking all staff to higher levels is about hierarchy and communication flow rather than the direct reporting relationships indicated by the span of control.