Matrix Structure

An organizational structure in which employees are assigned to both functional and divisional managers simultaneously, creating a dual reporting relationship.

What is matrix management?

"Matrix management is an organizational structure in which some individuals report to more than one supervisor or leader–relationships described as solid line or dotted line reporting."

How can matrix management be described in a broader context?

"More broadly, it may also describe the management of cross-functional, cross-business groups and other work models that do not maintain strict vertical business units or silos grouped by function and geography."

When and where was matrix management developed?

"Matrix management, developed in U.S. aerospace in the 1950s..."

When did matrix management achieve wider adoption?

"...achieved wider adoption in the 1970s."

What are the reporting relationships in matrix management called?

"...relationships described as solid line or dotted line reporting."

Does matrix management involve reporting to multiple supervisors?

"Some individuals report to more than one supervisor or leader..."

What are the potential groups included in matrix management?

"...cross-functional, cross-business groups and other work models..."

Are vertical business units part of matrix management?

"...do not maintain strict vertical business units..."

How are functional areas grouped in matrix management?

"...do not maintain strict vertical business units or silos grouped by function..."

Are geographic locations considered in matrix management?

"...do not maintain strict vertical business units or silos grouped by function and geography."

What is the primary focus of matrix management?

"Matrix management is an organizational structure..."

What is the origin of matrix management?

"Matrix management, developed in U.S. aerospace..."

What factors contributed to the widespread adoption of matrix management?

"...achieved wider adoption..."

How did the adoption of matrix management gain momentum?

"...achieved wider adoption in the 1970s."

How are reporting relationships depicted in matrix management?

"...relationships described as solid line or dotted line reporting."

Can individuals in matrix management have multiple leaders?

"...some individuals report to more than one supervisor or leader..."

What are some examples of work models that fall under matrix management?

"...cross-functional, cross-business groups and other work models..."

What types of units are not commonly found in matrix management?

"...do not maintain strict vertical business units..."

Are geographical factors relevant in matrix management?

"...do not maintain strict vertical business units or silos grouped by function and geography."

What are the characteristics of organizations using matrix management?

"Matrix management is an organizational structure..."