MGT 598 – Matrix Reflections

During our last MGT 598 Project Management class, we discussed the Matrix Organization Structure. When our professor asked the class if anyone had worked in a similar work structure I assumed I did not because I have a single boss and I don’t really work in the project management field. During the class, I realized that I do have exposure to the Matrix Organization Structure even if is not called out in that manner at my work.

I am a Senior Cost Analyst supporting a Manufacturing Plant. I have a single identified boss within the Finance organization. Yet, I also support specific products and business units within the plant. Those managers are also an effective boss of mine. I report to them every month with financials and results of various queries that they have. While the finance manager will ultimately be completing my performance review, pleasing and effectively supporting the plant managers will directly impact my performance review.

In the case study we went over in class, Moss and McAdams Accounting Firm, I can completely relate with Zeke Olds and the way in which he was being pulled in different directions. There have been many times that I have had requests from the Plant Managers that have conflicted with the wishes of my finance managers. Typically these are a result of different goals and areas of focus between the finance managers and the plant managers; finance wanting to tell one story with the numbers and the plant managers wanting to tell another story. Much of my job involved sorting through the numbers and commentary to reflect either both stories equally or reflecting the most accurate story. Finance is much more that simple accounting and reporting; it is the narrative described in the numbers that the various managers are going to have to speak to.