What is a disadvantage of a short chain of command?

A short chain of command typically means that there are fewer levels of management between the top executives and the front-line employees. While this structure offers several advantages, such as clearer communication and a quicker decision-making process, one disadvantage can emerge when there is a smaller number of employees directly reporting to each manager.

When managers have fewer subordinates, they may experience challenges in maintaining effective oversight and control. This is because a larger number of subordinates can dilute the manager's ability to provide individualized attention and assistance, potentially leading to confusion or a lack of direction among team members. Conversely, with a short chain of command, the expectation is for managers to build close relationships with their direct reports, but this becomes difficult if the organizational needs exceed the manager's capacity to engage with each employee thoroughly.

In essence, the primary drawback of a short chain of command is that it may lead to situations where managers become overwhelmed, causing a loss of control over operations and employee performance. This can hinder the effectiveness of management, especially in larger teams or complex tasks.