Matrix management training can mean different things to different people. When clients call us they can use the term matrix management to describe many things. They may include virtual working, multi-site teams, organizational complexity or dual reporting lines.

To us, matrix management training is about developing the skills to operate in today’s complex reporting structures. It can encompass all of these elements and the precise balance required depends on the particular challenges of the specific organization.

We typically provide 3 levels of matrix management training for groups with different needs

1. Matrix management training for leaders which focuses on the strategic and leadership challenges of operating in matrix organizations with competing priorities, high levels of connection and alignment challenges. This kind of training can be targeted at middle and/or senior leaders.
2. Matrix management training for teams - Teamwork is different when teams have multiple (often competing priorities). New skills are required to prevent high levels of escalation and increasing central control in an environment where team leaders may not have any traditional authority to get things done.
3. Matrix management training at the level of personal effectiveness. Training in how to set up and manage your network, shape your role in an ambiguous environment, manage escalation and influence without authority

As you can see, matrix management training can include a whole range of new skills and ways of working. It is not just a traditional management training approach with “and don’t forget you now have 2 bosses” added at the end.

In some cases the skills we learned in managing simpler organizations can become counterproductive in matrix management - in matrix management too much cooperation, communication control are common symptoms so increasing teamwork and communication may hinder rather than help, our training needs to reflect this reality.

Find out more about our matrix management training.

Oct 29 2008