Matrix Management:
Can a Fundamental Tenet of
Project Management Keep it Simple?

By Kathy Martucci, PMP:

I think you would whole-heartedly agree that Matrix Management is a well-established, well-recognized foundation of project management methodology.   Therefore, it must be in keeping with all the other basic truths of PM and just plain old good management– or is it?

If one of our goals is to KISS (Keep it Simple, Stupid!), does Matrix Management align with that goal?  It SOUNDS simple: all the people with similar skills regardless of their direct line of supervision are pooled and supervised by a person responsible to the project.  Simple.

So what gets complicated?  What about conflicting loyalties and priorities?  Those of us with both project and operations duties often hear that “Production is King” or “Operations is Priority Number One”.  But when a project deadline is looming, whose work takes precedence?  Two managers must now negotiate to answer that question.

Where are Matrix Management resources located, and how much independence and autonomy do they have?  As often encountered in truly virtual teams, not seeing someone face-to-face on a regular basis can have its complications.  Diligent oversight by both the direct supervisor and the project manager is imperative to execute and track work effectively.

So, what’s a KISS advocate to do?  First, take full advantage of the opportunity to foster the specialization that comes with matrix management and offer your staff the corresponding professional development it can provide.  Second, encourage the communication channels that are created as all the subject matter experts in one area are under your supervision.

And, Keep it Simple!