Rapid development requires that companies have the right organizational structure to grow and succeed. Among the many organizational structure options, many companies trust the matrix management model because of its ability to communicate, coordinate fluidly and creatively.

Let’s explore with Ms. Uptalent the ingredients, benefits and challenges of matrix model Browse the article below to better understand why it is the choice of many companies!

CONTENTS:
1- What is the matrix model?
2- Advantages of the matrix model
3- What does the matrix model include?
4- Difficulties in applying the matrix model
5. Conclusion

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1- What is the matrix model?

The matrix model is called Matrix organizational structure in English. It is defined as follows:

“The matrix model is an organizational structure in which each employee reports to the head of the department in which they are a permanent employee and to the program and project manager. »

The matrix model works on the principle of a multi-dimensional support and authority system. Thus, information within the organization will flow vertically (functions) and horizontally (products or operations).

Initially, the matrix management model was designed to apply to the aviation industry because this industry has tasks that need to be handled separately. Using traditional management methods will slow down the work of the entire organization.

So far, the die has become one of the perfect choices for companies that regularly carry out many projects or produce a variety of products.

Studies also show that the matrix model is more effective in the following cases: the company must concentrate its resources to deal with external factors, the company is under pressure to share its resources or must concentrate its capabilities to deal with large quantities of information.

2- Advantages of the matrix model

The matrix model is considered much more complex than other management models. However, it can bring many benefits to businesses and organizations. Specifically:

2.1- Establish a clear direction to achieve the project objectives

When applying the matrix model, you will need to report the work to your direct superior and project manager. This allows the project objectives to remain strengthened and project implementation will always be a top priority.

2.2- Efficient use of resources

With the traditional hierarchical management model, companies often spend more time implementing projects because their teams do not have members with different expertise.

At the same time, the matrix model can allow companies to use a combination of members from different specialist departments. Thanks to this structure, companies will efficiently use human resources and minimize project implementation time.

Additionally, the matrix model also helps businesses reduce costs. Normally, when there is no project implementation team composed of members with different expertise, companies will have to reestablish the team structure and incur additional recruitment costs.

2.3- Create a smooth flow of information

Applying the matrix model is an effective method to help businesses create a smooth and accurate flow of information because employees must report to many different levels of management.

If in the hierarchical model, employees need to memorize and relay information quickly, then in the matrix model of information flow, this is their need.

2.4- Create project management opportunities to improve capabilities

The structural features of the matrix model require the project manager to assume many different responsibilities. They are also responsible for leading their team through the project implementation process.

These are the job challenges that will push project managers to improve their expertise and skills. Since then, their abilities have also improved more and more.

2.5- Contribute to the maintenance and stabilization of human resources

In the matrix model, experts from many different fields will coordinate and support each other to complete the project. They will work together under the control of functional managers and project managers.

It is this regular cooperation that will create a close relationship between experts and project participants. In the future, they will continue to collaborate together to realize new projects.

3- What does the matrix model include?

The matrix model is developed based on a multidimensional system of power and support. It consists of two main lines of authority: the functional line, which operates vertically, and the product or installation line, which operates horizontally.

In the governance matrix, information flows in both directions, vertical and horizontal. At the same time, additional management positions will be created to play a coordinating role between departments. These people will share power with administrators according to function.

Because it is built based on a combination of in-line structure and target programs, the position of managers by function and by product in the matrix model will be the same. Both have the authority to make decisions regarding the work for which they are responsible and are accountable to the same level of management.

Through the clear and specific combination of the authority system between managers and the coordination mechanism, the matrix model can maximize its advantages.

During this time, employees will work under the guidance of the head of the professional department and the head of the project department. The professional department head or direct manager will decide who will do the work and how to do it, and the project manager will decide when and what content of the program to implement.

To organize an effective matrix model, companies should choose project managers with appropriate capabilities and relationships when determining the horizontal structure and select managers with expertise and a spirit of high vertical responsibility. Finally, proceed to connect relationships and information flows.

4- Difficulties in applying the matrix model

The complexity of the matrix model also gives it certain limitations. Here are the difficulties you will face if you choose this model:

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4.1- Complicated reporting process

This is a typical drawback when companies use the matrix model in project management. This is because project members may have difficulty determining to whom and when to report their work.

Even though the purpose of reporting is to benefit the teams involved in the same project, it can make things more complicated or even cause chaos in the implementation process.

The solution to overcome this difficulty is to clarify the following two points:

– Who reports to whom?

– How to report?

4.2- Slow response time

The complexity of the matrix model slows information response time and causes delays in project schedules. The slow response time is because we have to introduce ourselves to many people.

Having many members participate is a benefit, but it also makes you spend more time getting the information out to everyone. To overcome this, you can consider using management software tailored to your business.

4.3- Conflicts arise easily

The matrix structure encourages teamwork, but it can also backfire with the effects of personality differences.

For example, when the project manager and functional department head disagree, it can easily lead to conflicts. At this stage, to resolve the problem, the functional manager and the project manager must actively communicate with each other. By exchanging and discussing together, they will understand and reach a consensus.

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4.4- Conflicting information

The structure of the matrix model is that employees will report to two managers. This leads them to take on more responsibilities.

At the same time, each manager may provide different feedback and advice to employees. Conflicts in the circulation of information are therefore inevitable.

To avoid this problem, you need to make sure there is a system in place between the two managers that allows them to work directly with each other.

Through the system, they can discuss, agree on opinions and make appropriate arrangements for work items before assigning them to employees. This allows employees to receive clear instructions and no longer have to wonder which manager to follow.

4.5- Difficulty determining work priorities

Functional managers may think that the tasks assigned to them are the most important, as do project managers. At this time, employees will have difficulty determining work priorities and will not know who to turn to for instructions.

The reason this problem occurs is because the two managers are not working together or reaching consensus on opinions and ideas.

The best solution to overcome this problem is for both managers to work together regularly to reach consensus on the work order in accordance with the project objectives.

We see that the application of the matrix model can pose many difficulties. However, these difficulties can all be overcome by improving cooperation and communication between managers and team members.

5. Conclusion

The strength of the matrix model is that it overcomes the disadvantages of traditional organizational structure in terms of fragmented work management, lack of overall accountability and low efficiency of information flow.

Although this model still has certain limitations, it remains highly appreciated for its ability to bring numerous advantages and great efficiency to companies in a volatile economic context.

Hopefully, Ms. Uptalent’s sharing in this article has helped you get a clearer view of the matrix management model. From there, you’ll know how to effectively apply it to your business. Good luck!

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