A matrix organizational structure generally describes a business with multiple managerial accountability and responsibility. The main types of matrix structures comprise the strong matrix (authority lies with a project manager who has a senior role within the company), balanced matrix (it equally distributes power to both the project and functional manager), and weak matrix (where power lies with the functional manager completely).
Understanding a matrix organizational structure
There are no set guidelines for a matrix organizational structure. This is because the matrix structure is simply a combination of two or more structure types to give each more balance.
As a result, a business can create a matrix structure according to its particular needs and the industry it operates in.
Nevertheless, most organizations using this structure incorporates two chains of command.
One manages functional activities while the other is tasked with managing projects, products, or clients. It’s important to note that these roles are fluid and the balance of power between each manager is not organizationally defined.
Rather than one project manager overseeing every aspect of a project, employees report to two or more managers. This arrangement is often useful when skills need to be shared across departments to complete a task.
Three types of matrix structures
The matrix organizational structure can be divided into three types:
Strong matrix
Where authority lies with a project manager who has a senior role within the company.
With control over resources and distribution of tasks, the project manager may have more power than the functional manager.
Balanced matrix
As the name suggests, the balanced matrix equally distributes power to both the project and functional manager.
Employees report to the project manager who in turn reports to the functional manager to ensure accountability.
Weak matrix
Where power lies with the functional manager completely. In this scenario, the project manager has a role better defined as a project coordinator or expeditor.
They act as a facilitator between the customer and the project team and can only institute minor project management directives.
Advantages and disadvantages of the matrix organizational structure
Advantages
- Enhanced communication – with none of the communication barriers seen in a purely hierarchical structure, communication between departments is fluid and collaborative. Large and diverse companies featuring many functional units can collectively work toward a shared goal.
- Employment development – employees working under a matrix structure are exposed to new methods and ways of thinking. This helps them push the boundaries of their comfort zones to further personal and organizational objectives.
Disadvantages
- Lack of effectiveness. Large companies may suffer from organizational bloating, where a surplus of managerial and administrative roles combined with more points of communication may decrease productivity. The decision to combine various organizational structures may instead dilute the benefits each structure brings in isolation.
- Disharmony. Cross-functional working under a matrix structure does not always succeed. Teams can lose their best talent to other teams or departments indefinitely, causing further productivity losses and a decrease in morale. In some cases, employees returning to their teams after an unsuccessful stint elsewhere may have trouble re-integrating.
Types of Organizational Structures

Siloed Organizational Structures
Functional

Divisional

Open Organizational Structures
Matrix

Flat

Connected Business Frameworks


Nadler-Tushman Congruence Model

McKinsey’s Seven Degrees of Freedom





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