A project manager needs to discuss the team assignment for a new project with the technology director. One of the best developers is needed for a key deliverable; however, the developer is…

Question

Options

• AWeak matrix
• BSimple organic
• CProject oriented
• DStrong matrix

• A
  90% (37)
• B
  5% (2)
• C
  2% (1)
• D
  2% (1)

Explanation

In a weak matrix organization (A), functional managers retain authority over resources, and project managers must negotiate for team members without direct control. The scenario - where the PM must go to the technology director to request a specific developer, only to find that developer unavailable - is the hallmark of a weak matrix structure. The PM has limited power to override the functional manager's resource allocation decisions. In a strong matrix (D), the PM would have significantly more authority and could likely secure the needed resource. In a project-oriented structure (C), team members are fully assigned to the project and the PM has full authority. In a simple/organic structure (B), there are few formal roles or PM authority structures at all. The fact that the best developer is simply 'unavailable' without the PM having recourse clearly indicates weak PM authority - a weak matrix.

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