Question

According to the scalar principle, what term describes a superior exercising direct supervision over a subordinate?

• A. Authority
• B. Responsibility
• C. Span of Control
• D. Unity of Command

Hint:

Important management principles to remember:

• \textbf{Scalar Chain} → Chain of authority from top to bottom
• \textbf{Span of Control} → Number of subordinates supervised by a manager
• \textbf{Unity of Command} → One employee receives orders from only one boss

Memory trick: \[ \textbf{Span of Control = How many people a manager directly controls} \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
The Scalar Principle in management refers to the chain of authority that extends from the highest level of management to the lowest level in an organization. It emphasizes a clear line of authority and communication within the organizational hierarchy. Within this framework, an important concept is the Span of Control. Span of control refers to the number of subordinates that a manager or superior can effectively supervise and manage directly. It determines how many employees report directly to a particular manager. A proper span of control helps ensure effective supervision, clear communication, and efficient coordination of activities. If the span of control is too wide, a manager may struggle to supervise all employees effectively. If it is too narrow, it may lead to unnecessary levels of management and increased administrative costs.
Step 1: Understanding the scalar principle.

The scalar principle describes the hierarchical chain of authority in an organization, where each level has authority over the level below it.
Step 2: Identifying the concept related to supervision.

The question asks for the term that describes a superior directly supervising subordinates. This concept refers to how many subordinates a manager can manage directly.
Step 3: Analyzing the options.

• Option (A): Authority — Refers to the power to make decisions and issue orders.
• Option (B): Responsibility — Refers to the obligation to perform assigned duties.
• Option (C): Span of Control — Refers to the number of subordinates directly supervised by a superior. This matches the description in the question.
• Option (D): Unity of Command — Means that each employee should receive orders from only one superior.

Step 4: Selecting the correct answer.
\[ \boxed{\text{Span of Control}} \]