Retention, engagement & workforce metrics · Core
Span of control
Also called: managerial span
ELI5
Number of direct reports per manager.
Used in conversation
“The team needs one controlled copy of span of control, with an owner and date.”
Pitch context
You will see “Span of control” in organisation plans, workforce reviews, change programmes and people reports when the discussion reaches retention, engagement & workforce metrics.
Why it matters: In retention, engagement & workforce metrics, the scope can change what data may be used, who may access it and which controls are required.
Caution
Employment law and workplace practice vary by jurisdiction and agreement.
Sources & evidence · 3
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- OECD — G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance 2023Direct source · institutional · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — BLS GlossaryDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Productivity programmeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16