Which of the following organizational principles refers to the number of individuals or groups that one person can effectively supervise or manage?

The principle that refers to the number of individuals or groups that one person can effectively supervise or manage is known as the Span of Control. This concept is crucial in organizational management as it determines the efficiency and effectiveness of supervision. A properly defined span of control ensures that a supervisor has just the right number of subordinates to monitor and guide, balancing the workload without overwhelming the supervisor or diluting the attention each subordinate receives.

In practical terms, an optimal span of control enhances communication, boosts morale, and improves organizational efficiency. If a supervisor oversees too many individuals, their ability to manage effectively diminishes, potentially leading to issues in coordination and oversight. Conversely, if the span is too narrow, it may lead to inefficiencies and unnecessary hierarchical layers.

The other principles listed relate to different aspects of organizational structure and function. Unity of Command emphasizes that every employee should report to one supervisor to avoid confusion and conflicting instructions. Division of Labor refers to the breakdown of tasks among various workers or groups to improve efficiency. Continuity of Responsibility implies that responsibilities should be clear and maintained throughout processes or operations. Each of these principles complements the overall functioning of an organization but does not address the specific capacity of one individual to manage others, which is the essence of the span of control