Correct Option: D Explanation of Why Option D is Correct: The principle of span of control refers to the number of subordinates that a manager can effectively supervise. This principle is crucial in organizational structure and management because it directly impacts communication, efficiency, and the overall effectiveness of a team or department.

1. Definition of Span of Control: The span of control is the number of employees that report directly to a manager. A workable maximum means that there is an optimal number of direct reports that a manager can handle effectively without compromising the quality of supervision and support.
2. Importance of a Workable Maximum: If a manager has too many direct reports, it can lead to several issues:
3. Overwhelm: The manager may become overwhelmed with the number of employees to supervise, leading to decreased attention to individual team members.
4. Communication Breakdown: With too many direct reports, communication can become less effective, as the manager may not have enough time to communicate clearly and regularly with each subordinate.
5. Reduced Accountability: When a manager has too many direct reports, it can be challenging to hold each employee accountable for their performance, leading to a decline in productivity and morale.
6. Optimal Span of Control: The ideal span of control can vary depending on several factors, including the nature of the work, the skills of the employees, and the management style. Generally, a span of control of 5 to 10 employees is often considered effective, but this can vary widely.

Explanation of Why Other Options Are Wrong or Weaker:

• Option A: An employee should report to only one superior
• Why It's Weaker: While it is generally true that having a single direct supervisor can reduce confusion and conflict in reporting relationships, this statement does not capture the essence of the span of control principle. The principle is more about the number of subordinates a manager can effectively supervise rather than the number of superiors an employee should have. In some organizations, matrix structures allow employees to report to multiple managers, which can be effective in certain contexts.
• Option B: Manager must demand accountability from their subordinates
• Why It's Weaker: While accountability is an important aspect of management, this statement does not directly relate to the span of control. Accountability is a broader concept that applies to all levels of management and does not specifically address the number of employees a manager can effectively supervise. It is more about the expectations set by the manager rather than the structural aspect of management.
• Option C: Resources have to be economized within the various divisions
• Why It's Weaker: This statement pertains to resource management and allocation rather than the span of control. While economizing resources is important for organizational efficiency, it does not address the relationship between a manager and their subordinates. The span of control focuses specifically on the supervisory relationship and the number of direct reports.

Summary of Key Points:

• The span of control refers to the number of employees reporting to a manager and should be kept to a workable maximum for effective supervision.
• A manageable span of control enhances communication, accountability, and overall team performance.
• Too many direct reports can lead to overwhelm, communication breakdowns, and reduced accountability.
• The ideal span of control can vary based on the nature of the work and the management style, but generally, 5 to 10 direct reports is considered effective.

This understanding of the span of control is essential for effective management and organizational structure, ensuring that managers can lead their teams efficiently and effectively.