What does 'span of control' measure in an organizational context?

Span of control refers to the number of employees who report directly to a particular manager. This concept is crucial in organizational structure as it helps determine the hierarchy and the effectiveness of communication within a team. A wider span of control may lead to less direct oversight, while a narrower span allows for more personal attention and guidance from the manager.

Understanding span of control is essential for balancing managerial workloads and fostering efficient operations. When a manager has too many direct reports, they may struggle to provide adequate support and leadership, potentially leading to decreased employee performance and satisfaction. Conversely, a well-managed span of control can enhance leadership effectiveness and improve team dynamics.

The other options do not accurately define span of control. The total number of staff in the organization pertains to overall workforce size but does not reflect managerial oversight. The number of projects a manager oversees relates to their workload and project management skills rather than the specific relationships they have with their team members. Lastly, the level of customer satisfaction measures external perception and performance, which is unrelated to the internal structure of an organization.