Matrix Organizations
An organization can be defined as a group of people who work together in an organized way for a shared purpose [1]. The way an organization is structured can affect the amount of resources available for the organization as well as how different projects are carried out [2]. In the beginning of 20th century many organizations obtained their ways of working, either by structurizing their work with a larger focus on projects (projectized structure) or groups with similar roles and expertise (functional structure). In 1960s aerospace organizations saw a need of adopting a new approach that would combine the knowledge from various industries, and the third approach, called matrix organization, was found.
Project Management Institute defines Matrix Organization as any organizational structure in which the project manager shares responsibility with the functional managers for assigning priorities and for directing the work of persons assigned to the project [2]. This means that in matrix organizations there are generally two managers to report to, and the managers must collaborate for better resource allocation, as well as knowledge-sharing.
Generally there are three types of matrix organizations, based on the influence of each manager – weak matrix (stronger functional manager link), balanced matrix, and strong matrix (stronger project manager link). The project manager’s involvement in the activities determine the strength of the matrix organization.
- Overview of matrix types and characteristics
- Factors affecting an organizational structure
- Strengths and weaknesses of matrix organizations
- How to make the matrix organization work
References Cambridge Dictionary, "Citation," 2022.
Project Management Institute, A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide), Fifth Edition ed., Pennsylvania: Project Management Institute, Inc., 2013.
W. G. Egelhoff and J. Wolf, Understanding Matrix Structures and Their Alternatives, London: Springer Nature, 2017.
D. Metcalfe, Managing the Matrix: The secret to surviving and thriving in your organization, West Sussex: Wiley, 2014.
R. B. Duncan, "Multiple Decision-making Structures in Adapting to Environmental Uncertainty: The Impact on Organizational Effectiveness," Human Relations, pp. 273-291, 1973.
L. C. Stuckenbruck, "The Matrix Organization," Project Management Quartetrly, pp. 21-33, 1979.
Bibliography
- ↑ Cambridge Dictionary. (n.d.). Citation. In Cambridge English Dictionary. Retrieved February 11, 2022 from https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/organization.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Project Management Institute, A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide), Fifth Edition ed., Pennsylvania: Project Management Institute, Inc., 2013.
