Describe 5 difficulties that a project Mgr. may experience when working in a matrix environment and give examples of things they might do to alleviate these.
I would need some advices on the examples to alleviate the difficulties of working in matrix environment.
4.7 Q2 – Matrix Organization
Paul Naybour
Published: 15th August 2013
Thanks Emmanuelle .. this would be a very good start
This would be the gist of my answer (albeit developed into full sentences at the exam)
1.Conflict in priorities: team members also need to report to functional manager and project work might not take priority: PM will need conviction and leadership skill, escalation if needed
2.Blurred reporting lines: PM will need to clearly define roles and responsibilities so team members know how they fit into the matrix
3.Communication issues: conflicting messages from functional and project team; PM will need to assert his leadership and tip the balance in his favour.
4.Staff not flexible enough to work in both functional and project environment: either through lack of skills, motivation or priorities; PM will need to define Roles & Responsibilities clearly, reporting lines, manage resources effectively and train/ develop them to make them more comfortable with the situation
5.Poor resource visibility and availability: involve HR and department heads for input and commitment
any comments welcome