Activity 1
Describe the different types of control that can exist at different managerial
hierarchy. Illustrate with examples from an organisation of your choice.
Managerial hierarchy
Most organizations have three management levels:
Low-level managers;
Middle-level managers; and
Top-level managers.
These managers are classified in a hierarchy of authority, and perform different tasks. In many
organizations, the number of managers in every level resembles a pyramid.
The different types of control at each managerial hierarchy can be described as follows:
Top-level managers
The board of directors, president, vice-president, and CEO are all examples of top-level managers.
Types of control at top-level managers
These managers are responsible for controlling and overseeing the entire organization. They develop
goals, strategic plans, company policies, and make decisions on the direction of the business.
In addition, top-level managers play a significant role in the mobilization of outside resources.
Top-level managers are accountable to the shareholders and general public.
Middle-level managers
General managers, branch managers, and department managers are all examples of middle-level
managers. They are accountable to the top management for their department’s function.
Types of control at middle-level managers
Middle-level managers devote more time to organizational and directional functions than top-level
managers. Their roles can be emphasized as:
Executing organizational plans in conformance with the company’s policies and the objectives
of the top management;
Defining and discussing information and policies from top management to lower management;
and most importantly
Inspiring and providing guidance to low-level managers towards better performance.
Some of their functions are as follows:
Designing and implementing effective group and intergroup work and information systems;
Defining and monitoring group-level performance indicators;
Diagnosing and resolving problems within and among work groups;
Designing and implementing reward systems supporting cooperative behaviour.
Low-level managers
Supervisors, section leads, and foremen are examples of low-level management titles. These managers
focus on controlling and directing.
Types of control at low-level managers
Low-level managers usually have the responsibility of:
Assigning employees tasks;
Guiding and supervising employees on day-to-day activities;
Ensuring the quality and quantity of production;
Making recommendations and suggestions; and
Channelling employee problems to higher levels of management.
Low level managers are also referred to as first-level managers. They are considered as role models for
employees. These managers provide:
Basic supervision;
Motivation;
Career planning;
Performance feedback; and
Staff supervision.
