Earlier than 1970, large businesses were most typically formatted in a silo design, where workers were divided into departments that report to a line or functional manager. The result of the restructuring attempt of this classical silo design in order to create more productive project management teams is known as a matrix organizational structure.

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

The matrix structure was developed because of the organizational difficulties present. It works out that the line managers are not responsible for the workers but now it is the responsibility of the project managers. While the project managers aren't responsible dealing with the human resource administration, they now can be empowered to directly handle the workers. The result is the project in the whole can be dealt with without forcing them to get involved in human resources issues.

I have been in this sort of situation myself. I led the project and oversaw everything but the personnel issues. This worked very well for me. I was in charge of everything related to the project itself, but was free from handling unrelated details like reviews, contracts, training, taxes, and vacations. Under this arrangement, I was able to focus completely on the project I had undertaken.

In this situation, then, when a new project begins, the project manager discusses staffing requirements with each functional manager, who then tries to provide the necessary resources and training. Functional managers often develop plans, as well as charts (such as Gantt charts) determining how individuals are to be organized in each project. In addition, staff might be directed to move to another project or manager if this becomes necessary, but only with the project manager's approval.

While project managers cooperate with functional managers, the project manager is primarily responsible for every detail related to the project. Hence, in this matrix structure, the project manager has primary authority and responsibility.

Daiv Russell is a marketing and management consultant with Envision Consulting in Tampa, Florida. Learn more about matrix management structure at project-management-course.info. Choose the right Project Management Software and better your Gantt Charts

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