Susan Finerty
Master the Matrix: 7 Essentials for Getting Things Done in Complex Organizations
You’re in a matrix, whether you realize it or not.
Here’s the test:
- Do you have multiple bosses (one may be referred to as “solid line” and others as a “dotted line”)?
- Do you depend on a variety of resources throughout the organization to get your tasks done, and do these resources report into other people, teams or organizations?
If you answered “yes” to either of these...
...you work in a matrix role—whether your organization calls itself a matrix or not. You get results by navigating either a matrix above or surrounding you.
Matrix roles are everywhere. The field customer contact person who has to work through a maze of resources to write contracts, negotiate delivery and troubleshoot product issues is in a matrix role. The product manager in Italy who is simultaneously accountable for numbers in her country, region and business unit despite the fact they are in conflict, is in a matrix role. And the HR person who reports to a globalized HR function, with a dotted line to the head of the business they support? Yes, again a matrix role.
Master the Matrix: 7 Essentials for Getting Things Done in Complex Organizations is based on the experiences and ideas of over 100 matrix practioners. The frameworks, ideas and tips provided are shaped around the following matrix mastery techniques:
- You have to Start with Partnerships: Essential #1;
- Partnerships are forged to Get Goals Aligned, Roles Clear and Decisions Made: Essentials #2, 3, and 4;
- All of this requires you to : Flex Your Influence Muscle, Communicate without Assumption and Treat Meetings like they Matter: Essentials #5, 6 and 7.
