Leading and Surviving in a Matrix

Yes, matrix structures can be helpful, and without the right mindset and skills, can also be messy. Read to learn about how we at ACT work with organizations to create culture that supports this organizational model.

Matrix structures emerged in the late 1970s to better leverage expertise from different departments while maintaining a degree of functional specialization. I remember a case study at university about how NASA used it to successfully plan, develop, and execute complex space missions.

Today, they are more complex than ever, as organizations deal with dynamic, constantly changing environments.

Seen as a response to complexity, many organizations have ironically created more of it with an intricate web of reporting lines and overlapping responsibilities. With dotted lines all over the place, employees are not clear where they sit in their organization.

At ACT, we work with individual leaders and organizations to help address issues such as these. For matrix structures to be effective (assuming they are designed correctly), there needs to be a culture supports it. The right mindset and skills to thrive in an environment where the power dynamics are unclear. Working with individual leaders and teams, our team coaches help to:

• Co-create authority and design the work around the customer needs not the org structure

• Create safety for difficult conversations, e.g. feedback and openness to new ideas as new information emerges.

• Assign leadership roles and responsibilities based on relevant expertise and experience rather than formal titles or positions.

• Involving team members in the design of authority structures, you can ensure that decision-making processes are aligned with the project's goals and requirements.

• Develop influencing skills based around Active Listening to persuade and negotiate with stakeholders, build consensus, provide context (e.g. customer needs) and drive alignment.

Leadership and Team Coaching focus on Relationships and Results. For any organization to be effective, it requires every individual to feel safe to show up and bring their full selves to work. Awareness of how you show up and taking responsibility for your impact.