The Use of Matrix Structures in Organizational Projects

In a matrix organization, employees can report to two bosses at the same time.

Matrix organizational structures are immensely popular and preferred by project-based companies. Under the matrix structure, an employee reports to more than one superior. For every project, the management chooses employees from different functional areas. In addition to the project in question, the employees keep performing the earlier tasks assigned to them.

Different Skillsets

Every project has several domains and dimensions. For a project to be successfully executed and completed, it needs to have employees who possess different skills. The management chooses the employees very meticulously. It aims at drawing the best talent from across all the departments.

The employees bring with themselves cross-functional expertise. The coordination and communication channels get fortified with matrix organizational structures.

Lower Costs

Matrix organizational structures cut costs tremendously. The management uses the same resources across different projects. The costs associated with the projects are shared and reduced. The management apportions its manpower resources effectively across projects. The project completion times are also reduced.

Fixed Responsibilities

Fixing authority and responsibility become easier with matrix organizational structures. The departmental head is responsible for all routine and recurring tasks. The scope, purview and domain of the project manager are limited to the boundaries of the project. As the management has already defined the accountability structure, it knows whom to question if anomalies creep into the functioning of the system. The respective supervisors are also careful and diligent in discharging the tasks assigned to them.

High-Quality Output

With the matrix organizational structure, the company is able to maintain the quality of its output. All projects need different points of view and perspectives for successful completion. The management chooses the best employees from different departments. In addition, the selected employees are imparted training on the requirements of the project. A project may necessitate the use of a particular software application. All the employees are trained on the software. The project manager mentors and guides all his subordinates throughout the project.

References

• Business Dictionary: matrix organization
• Reference for Business: Matrix Management and Structure