What is a matrix organization in project management?

A matrix organization is defined as one in which there is dual or multiple managerial accountability and responsibility. In a matrix there are usually two chains of command, one along functional lines and the other along project, product, or client lines.

What is matrix project organizational design?

A matrix organizational structure is a workplace format in which employees report to two or more managers rather than one manager overseeing every aspect of a project. For example, an employee may have a primary manager they report to as well as one or more project managers they work under.

What steps would you recommend to make a matrix organization work well?

But such reorgs don’t make silos go away — they just create new ones. So it remains crucial to ensure lateral coordination between the various units….Here are five practical guidelines.

• Adopt when purposeful.
• Keep intrinsic conflict out.
• Limit breadth and depth.
• Don’t pretend.
• Escalate by exception only.

Who is the project manager in the matrix organization?

The project manager in the matrix organization is not a staff man nor does he normally have less authority than the functional managers reporting on the same level.

How are performance evaluations used in matrix management?

Edwards and Sproull (1985) refers to performance evaluations as the “Achilles heel of matrix management.” He further states that “since project team members work for more than one boss, a fair and equitable means must be developed to assure effective determination of performance merit and promotion fitness” (p. 154).

How can I create a matrix organizational structure?

Matrix structures demand capable tools. Try ProjectManager.com and get the award-winning PM software used by NASA. Try it today. It’s recommended to have an organizational structure in place to accurately define the activities in a project. Projects have many activities, from task allocation to budgeting and everything in-between.

Who are the members of a balanced matrix team?

In the balanced matrix form, team members report to both the project manager and functional manager. In this form, members are generally expected to be working on the project and in their function, keeping both managers informed.