What is it called when a supervisor needs to oversee a manageable number of individuals?

The term that describes the concept of a supervisor overseeing a manageable number of individuals is known as the span of control. This principle is crucial in organizational management, particularly in fire departments, as it ensures that supervisors can effectively monitor, support, and guide their team members without becoming overwhelmed. A well-defined span of control helps to maintain communication, enhance leadership effectiveness, and ensure that personnel receive the attention and direction they need to perform efficiently. In the context of emergency services, having an appropriate span of control improves response times and the coordination of efforts during operations, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both the team and the community they serve.