Which statement best describes the impact of a wide span of control on organizational structure?

• A. It tends to reduce overhead and create a flatter hierarchy.
• B. It increases the number of management layers.
• C. It eliminates the need for supervisors.
• D. It guarantees faster decision-making in all cases.

Answer: (A)

Wide span of control describes a manager supervising many direct reports. When a supervisor oversees a large number of employees, the organization typically requires fewer managerial levels overall, which reduces overhead and leads to a flatter hierarchy. Fewer layers between top management and front-line staff can streamline communication and cut costs, since you’re not layering in additional managers. However, speed of decision-making isn’t guaranteed in every situation; effective delegation, clear processes, and capable subordinates are essential for making broad supervision work well. The other ideas don’t fit because a wide span does not add management layers (that would be a narrow span), it does not remove the need for supervisors, and it does not automatically guarantee faster decisions in all scenarios.