Chap 3. Organization: Structure + Culture

dominant role and dominant interest

A functional Structure is best suited when a single department has a

to optimize resource utilization

A key goal for an organization using a matrix structure of project management is

the functional manager is concerned with how the task defined by the project manager can be accomplished.

Identify a true statement about a balance matrix.

Normal Channels

In a functional organization, coordination of projects is maintained through

true

In the matrix organizational structure, project team members report simultaneously to both functional and project managers.

an optimal culture balance success with process

No single organizational culture can guarantee project success, however it is clear that

Balanced

Of the three types of matrix organizations, which is the hardest for an organization to effectively utilize, i.e. which usually falls victim to classic matrix management problems?

authority

Project management systems need to balance the organizational structure and that of the project group with respect to

The factors will have varying degrees of influence/utilization.

Research suggests 10 primary characteristics that can define culture. What can be said about how these organizational define company culture?

No change, flexibility, in-depth expertise, and easy post-project transition.

The advantages of a functional project organization include

Lack of ownership and conflict between "routine" work and "project" work

The disadvantages of a functional project organization include

True

Through shared perceptions and values, culture builds a sense of commitment by employees to their organization.

a sense of identity, justification of managerial actions and initiatives, and clarification of acceptable business practices.

What are the by-products/outcome derived by a company's culture?

A "we-they' attitude

What is considered a potential negative result of utilizing dedicated project teams, especially in a historically functional organization?

To get buy-in from internal and external stakeholders

What is the key reason project managers have to be able to "read and speak" the culture in which they are working?

Provide support/assistance as needed

What is the main role of functional departments in organizations where projects are the dominant form of business, such as construction and software?

simple, fast, cohesive, and cross-functional integration

Which are the primary benefits of using a dedicated project management structure?

norms, beliefs, values, and assumptions

Which factors in organizational culture bind people together and create shared meaning?

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.

Which of the following are good clues to determine an organization's culture?

The project manager recruits project team members.

Which of the following is a characteristic responsibility of the project manager on a dedicated project team?

Depends on the project and the organization.

Which organizational structure works best for projects?

to be able to interact with external stakeholders, to be able to interact with diverse departments

Why do project managers have to be aware of organizational culture to help guide a project to success?

The need for a high level of cross functional integration and the need for speed.

Why would a company choose to create a dedicated project team structure if that is not their normal project approach?

delayed realization of the impact of other team members work.

the lack of horizontal (direct) lines of communication in a functional project organization will generally cause a longer project completion time due to