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Posted on March 1, 2008 by Daiv Russell | Posted under Management
An Effective Matrix Organizational Structure
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Different styles of matrix management can exist within an organization. The overall objective is to satisfy divisional or departmental functional requirements by pooling workers with similar skills. The major organizational matrix types consist of either weak, strong, or balanced matrix structures. This article presents pros and cons of the weak matrix organization. Strong Matrix Organization Structure Because of the problems encountered in the silo structure, a strong matrix structure was put in place with the project managers being responsible for supervising the workers. Responsibility for the administration of human resources was left in the hands of the line managers. Under this arrangement the project manager can effectively manage the project without having to be concerned with human resource issues. I have personally worked in this enlightened environment. I managed a project team maintaining authority over all aspects of my task except Human Resources issues. The experience was very satisfying. I led the team as PM, and maintained complete autonomy over their project-related work, but left all other details that were not project-related, including performance reviews, employment contracts, training needs, and the administration of vacation issues to a staff manager. My experience and training was therefore put to best use and I was empowered to concentrate on the project at hand rather than the myriad interferences. My staff counterpart was also able to utilize their training and knowledge to best serve the personnel on the team. After staffing requirements are laid out by the project manager, the functional manager will provide resources and training. Gantt Charts are used and resource plans are developed to determine organization among the individuals working on the project. Sometimes, it is necessary for staff to move to another project. This will only happen after it is approved by the project manager. Thus, even though project managers and functional managers work together towards a common goal, the project manager is the one who maintains primary control of every detail relating to the project. Accordingly, in this type of matrix, the person who holds the most power and authority is the project manager. About The Author: Daiv Russell is a marketing and management consultant with Envision Consulting in Tampa, Florida. Get more information on matrix organizational structure at project-management-course.info. Choose the right Project Management Software and optimize your Gantt Chart Use. |
Tags: MATRIX MANAGEMENT, MATRIX STRUCTURE, MATRIX ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE, MATRIX ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE, PROJECT MANAGEMENT, GANTT CHART
