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widening spans of control
. 
There is no universally 'correct' size for the span of control. The appropriate span of control will depend 
on: 
(a) The 
ability of the manager
. A good organiser and communicator will be able to control a larger 
number. The manager's workload is also relevant. 
(b) The 
ability of subordinates
. The more experienced, able, trustworthy and well-trained 
subordinates are, the easier it is to control larger numbers. 
(c) The 
nature of the task
. It is easier for a supervisor to control a large number of people if they are 
all doing routine, repetitive or similar tasks. 
(d) The 
geographical dispersal
 
of subordinates
. A manager may be able to manage a larger group 
(wider span of control) more easily if subordinates are located together, for example in the same 
building as the manager. 
(e) 
The availability of 
good quality information
. Relevant, timely information reduces uncertainty and 
may enable a manager to manage a larger group.
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CHAPTER 2
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THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT 
 
41 
9.1.2 Tall and flat organisations 
An 
information system
, such as an intranet, can help provide organisation unity and coherency in flat, 
decentralised organisations. 
The trend towards flatter structures is evidenced by talk of an 'e-lance economy', characterised by 
shifting 
coalitions
of small firms collaborating on particular 
projects
.
9.1.3 Organisation structure and information systems 
The structure of an organisation and the way in which the organisation's information system is arranged 
are