A narrower span of control implies which of the following?

• A. More direct reports
• B. Fewer direct reports
• C. Wider span of control
• D. Higher budgets

Answer: (B)

Span of control refers to how many subordinates report directly to a manager. If that span is narrowed, the manager oversees fewer people, which is exactly the situation described by having fewer direct reports. The other options don’t fit because a narrower span would not mean more direct reports or a broader scope; and budgets aren’t determined by span in a direct, one-to-one way.