this refers to the limitation on the number of subordinates that a manager can effectively administer and control. The principle of span of control states that there are only so many employees a manager can effectively supervise. A general rule of thumb is that a lower-level manager can oversee 8 to 20 employees, while an upper-level manager can supervise 4 to 8 employees. The reason for the lesser number at top- level management is that there is a greater amount of communication between managers and subordinates needed to operate the pharmacy. The key factors affecting the span of control are employee training, employee communication, extent of planning, and the need for support or assistance.
