Matrix Organisation: Violating Management Principles
A matrix organisation combines traditional functional departments with project or product teams. This structure creates a dual reporting relationship for employees.
Understanding Unity of Command
The principle of Unity of Command, often attributed to Henri Fayol, states that an employee should receive orders and be accountable to only one superior. This ensures clarity in instructions and reduces conflicts in priorities.
Analysis of Matrix Organisation
In a matrix structure:
- Employees report to a functional manager (e.g., Head of Engineering).
- Employees also report to one or more project managers for specific projects.
This dual reporting arrangement means an employee answers to multiple bosses, directly contradicting the Unity of Command principle.
Conclusion on Violated Principle
Because employees in a matrix organisation typically report to both a functional manager and a project manager, the organisation structure inherently violates the management principle of Unity of Command.
The other principles are less directly affected:
- Span of Management might be challenged but is not fundamentally violated by the structure itself.
- Scalar Chain (line of authority) exists but is complicated by the dual reporting.
- Unity of Direction is maintained as all efforts are typically directed towards project and organisational goals, albeit through multiple lines of authority.
Therefore, the matrix organisation structure violates the principle of Unity of Command.
Important Questions from Principles and functions of management - Teaching
- Match the functions of management
LIST-I LIST-II A. Planning I. activates the organizational methods to work efficiently for achieving organizational purposes. B. Organizing II. to bridge the gap between where we are and where we want to be C. Staffing III. to provide it with everything useful. D. Directing IV. manning the organizational structure.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below: - Which of the following means management should promote a team-spirit of unity and harmony among employees?
Match the List-I with List-II
LIST I LIST II A. Organisational Structure I. Refers to the delegation of authority throughout the organisation. B. Span of Management II. Groups activities on the basis of products. C. Divisional Structure III. Refers to the number of subordinates under a supervisor. D. Decentralisation IV. The framework within which managerai and operating tasks are operated.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:Match the List-I with List-II
LIST I LIST II A. Unity of Command I. Maintaining high morale among employees is imperative B. Unity of Direction II. Hierarchical, formalised communication channel C. Scalar Chain III. Functions have only one plan and one boss D. Espirit de Corps IV. Sub-ordinates reports to only one boss
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:- The exercise of planning in management :
(a) involves personal decisions
(b) is future oriented
(c) is based on analysis of goals achieved
(d) sees the action or work as a whole
