What is the primary distinction between line and staff managers?

The primary distinction between line and staff managers lies in their roles and responsibilities within an organization. Line managers are directly involved in the core activities of the business, overseeing employees who engage in the production of goods or services. They have direct operational responsibilities and play a crucial role in achieving the organization's revenue generation goals.

In contrast, staff managers support line managers by providing specialized expertise and advice. They do not have direct responsibility for revenue generation but instead focus on functions such as human resources, finance, or legal matters that support the overall operations of the organization.

Therefore, the correct answer highlights that line managers are primarily concerned with generating revenue through direct involvement in day-to-day operations, while staff managers contribute indirectly to revenue success by enhancing the capabilities and effectiveness of the line management through their specialized support functions.