What term refers to the total number of subordinates under a single supervisor?

The term that refers to the total number of subordinates under a single supervisor is known as "Span of Control." This concept is crucial in organizational structure as it directly impacts effectiveness and efficiency in management. A well-defined span of control allows supervisors to effectively manage their team without becoming overwhelmed or losing the ability to maintain oversight.

In practice, an appropriate span of control ensures that supervisors can provide adequate guidance and support to each subordinate. If the span is too wide, a supervisor may struggle to effectively manage all their subordinates, potentially leading to decreased productivity and communication issues. Conversely, if the span is too narrow, it may lead to inefficiencies and unnecessary hierarchical layers within the organization.

Unity of Command refers to the principle that each subordinate should report to only one supervisor to avoid conflicting directives, while Authority Level pertains to the extent of power or responsibility a supervisor has within the organization. Chain of Command outlines the formal paths of authority and responsibility within an organization, but does not specifically deal with the number of direct reports a supervisor has. Understanding span of control is vital for effective police administration, as it helps to establish well-balanced supervisory relationships and ensure operational success.