Span of control (SOC) is the number of people a manager can supervise effectively, and can be broadly categorized as narrow or wide. Understanding the cost/benefit of wide versus narrow spans of control, and implementing the appropriate span, is paramount to an agency’s success. With improvements in technology/CMMS, agencies have increased their span of control to an average between 5:1 to 8:1, with some agencies functioning at over 20:1. Increases in SOC help agencies save money and operate more efficiently, however, it is not necessarily the most beneficial structure. This presentation will identify the different categories associated with SOC, affecting factors, impact, and applicable concepts. The relationship between span of control and management levels will be discussed. Moving towards an optimal SOC will improve the morale of both management and staff. The audience will learn what other agencies have experienced and be able to identify the value of appropriate spans of control. The first speaker, as Assistant County Administrator of one of the largest Counties in Florida, is a seasoned public works and public utilities professional. The second speaker is a PWLF and member of APWA’s Leadership and Management Committee.
Proficiency Level
Applied
Learning Objectives
- Recognize the span of control within an agency and be aware of the relationship to management levels and efficiency
- Discuss the factors that affect the span of control, including new technologies and how they may apply to an agency
- Apply general management concepts to identify appropriate span of control within their agency
Contributor/Source
Harry Lorick;John Lyons
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Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
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