Organization: Structure and Culture Project Management Structures
Organization: Structure and Culture Project Management Structures
Challenges to Organizing Projects The uniqueness and short duration of projects relative to ongoing longer-term organizational activities The multidisciplinary and cross-functional nature of projects creates authority and responsibility dilemmas. Choosing an Appropriate Project Management Structure The best system balances the needs of the project with the needs of the organization. Organizing Projects: Functional organization Different segments of the project are delegated to respective functional units. Coordination is maintained through normal management channels. Used when the interest of one functional area dominates the project or one functional area has a dominant interest in the projects success. Organizing Projects: Dedicated Teams Teams operate as separate units under the leadership of a full-time project manager. In a projectized organization where projects are the dominant form of business, functional departments are responsible for providing support for its teams.
Functional Organizations
Project Management Structures (contd) Organizing Projects: Matrix Structure Hybrid organizational structure (matrix) is overlaid on the normal functional structure. Two chains of command (functional and project) Project participants report simultaneously to both functional and project managers. Matrix structure optimizes the use of resources. Allows for participation on multiple projects while performing normal functional duties. Achieves a greater integration of expertise and project requirements.
Organizational Culture
Organizational Culture Defined A system of shared norms, beliefs, values, and assumptions which bind people together, thereby creating shared meanings. The personality of the organization that sets it apart from other organizations. Provides a sense of identify to its members. Helps legitimize the management system of the organization. Clarifies and reinforces standards of behavior.
Identifying Cultural Characteristics Study the physical characteristics of an organization. Read about the organization. Observe how people interact within the organization. Interpret stories and folklore surrounding the organization.