Matrix Management Structures

The matrix management structure is a form of organizational design in which traditional vertical hierarchical relationships are overlaid with some form of lateral authority, influence, communication, or interdepartmental relationships. This type of structure supports the utilization of employees across different functional areas for project work that requires the expertise of various departments within the organization. These structures are unique in that they create dual reporting relationships (two chains of command), in which an employee has one manager within his or her functional area as well as one manager along the lateral, interdepartmental level. Matrix structures have become more common in organizations as a way of managing cross-functional, cross-project, and business cooperation because the interdepartmental design may allow for better coordination of efforts in large-scale and ...