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The Matrix Organisation - General Structures


To start I thought it might be useful to propose a definition: "Organization structure" can be defined as the formal interrelating of individuals and groupings in allocation of tasks, responsibilities and authority to achieve the goals of the organisation.

Functional organization structure - the organization forms departments. Each department has a separate function and specializes in that and only that area. Management from above must centrally coordinate the different specialized departments. It is a hierarchical, usually vertically integrated organizational structure

Product Organization structure - Each product or group of products becomes a separate division or cost center

Matrix/Project Organization structure - Matrix organization structures are a combination of the functional and product organization structures. Think of the matrix structure as the products lining up on the X axis and the functions lining up on the Y axis. Each of the functions is woven into each of the products (or product lines). Business decisions are usually made at the project leader as well as the top corporate and top function levels

Collaborative Team structure - a close relative of the matrix organization is one in which people work both vertically and horizontally in an informal collaborative team structure. This team may be permanent or temporary and is formed to share information, solve problems, or make decisions. Collaborative teams typically have members from different functions or regions. Many of the people on the team do not report to the leader of the team. The leader of a collaborative team leads through influence rather than position power



Published by: Lisette on 15/06/2009 - Add a comment

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