A narrow span of management is most suitable for which situation?

A narrow span of management, which indicates a smaller number of subordinates for each manager, is most suitable in situations where close supervision is necessary. This can often be the case with newly hired employees who may still be acclimating to their roles and require more direct guidance and support to familiarize themselves with the organization’s procedures, culture, and expectations.

In this context, managers are better able to provide the individual attention and training that new employees need, helping to ensure they develop the necessary competencies in their position. The personalized support offered through a narrow span of control aids in mitigating errors and fosters a learning environment where new hires can ask questions readily and receive feedback promptly.

In contrast, a routine, repetitive, homogeneous work structure typically benefits from a wider span of management, as tasks are standardized and may not require as much oversight. Similarly, well-motivated and highly trained groups often perform effectively with less direct management, allowing for increased autonomy and efficiency. Lastly, health care professionals who do not require close supervision can also thrive under a broader span of management, as they are often self-directed and proficient in their roles.