People can effectively deal with only 5 to 7 items at once. This includes the number of direct subordinates. Managing a group of 5 to 7 people (a hunting gathering party) requires one level of management. Managing a group of 25 to 50 people (the size of an extended family) requires two levels of management. Managing a group of 100 to 300 people (the size of a tribe) requires three levels of management. Each increase in the levels of management requires a quantum leap in level of leadership skills required to lead the organization. When an organization exceeds 3 levels of management you can no longer manage it through force of will. It takes on a life of its own. Human beings can’t maintain personal relationships with more than 100 to 300 people at a time. At this size, an organization’s leader must learn how to direct and focus the efforts of large numbers of people or it will stall.