Observation

The question was also avoided by most candidates. Those who attempted the question did not perform well. 

The expected responses to the question include:

7(a) Factors that determine span of control:

i The ability and training of supervisors.

ii The competence of the subordinates.
iii. Willingness of the manager to delegate authority.

iv The complexity/nature of the work.

v The effects of mistakes on the part of subordinates.

vi The geographical location of subordinates.

vii Hierarchy of management.

7(b) The board of directors of XYZ Company will perform the following functions:

i Planning: This involves defining goals, establishing strategies for achieving those goals and developing plans to integrate and coordinate activities

ii Controlling: This involves monitoring activities of the firm to ensure that set standards are followed and taking corrective action where deviations occur.

iii. Organising: This involves arranging and structuring work to accomplish an organisation’s goals.

iv Motivation: This involves boosting the morale of employees to strive to achieve organisation’s goal.

v Directing: It involves working with and through people to achieve or accomplish organisational goals.

vi Communication: It is the process of passing information and understanding from one person to another.  It is the transfer of information from a sender to a receiver with the information being understood by both parties.

vii Coordinating: It involves harmonizing all the activities of employees to achieve the organization’s objectives.