Organizational capability: Structure, Culture and Roles
There are various organizational structures, and these are functional, matrix, strong matrix, balanced matrix, and weak matrix. The advantage of the functional organizational structure is that it ensures that there is no duplication of efforts, while its disadvantage is that it may be difficult to coordinate the various functions. This kind of structure is useful when the project requires multiple expertise for it to be accomplished.
On the other hand, the matrix organizational structure is one that shows relationships among project members. The advantage of this structure is that there is a clear chain of command. On the other, the disadvantage is that there may be bureaucracies. This kind of project structure is useful for long term projects.
Strong matrix, on the other hand, is advantageous in the sense that the project manager takes full authority. However, this structure may be disadvantageous in the sense that the project manager may be ineffective. The use of strong matrix structure is suitable when the project manager is competent.
Balanced matrix structure as the other type of project management structure combines the project structure and the functional structure. Therefore, the advantages, disadvantages and its application are similar to those that are applicable in the two structures. Last but not least, there is the weak matrix, whose advantage is that of high levels of decentralization and its disadvantage being that it increased organizational complexity (Kloppenborg, 2019, pg. 21). This structure is suitable when supervisors have strong management skills.
Conversely, the organizations’ structure influences the implementation of its strategic plan and this is by highlighting how authorities and responsibilities are assigned, thus determining whether there is bureaucracy or not. On the other hand, there are various organizational cultural elements that are helpful in planning and managing of projects and one of these elements is effective communication. Without communication, it will be difficult to take the project to the next level. Besides that, the other cultural element that can help in project planning and management is good leadership. When there is effectiveness in leadership, then there is increased chances of attaining project success.
Nevertheless, various ways can be used to overcome the organizational cultural element that hinders the success of the projects. For instance, when it comes to effective leadership, the hiring manager should ensure that the project manager posses the skills and expertise that are required to run and manage the project. The other element to put into consideration is communication. Effectiveness in communication can be enhanced through ensuring that only relevant means and channels of communications are used.
Linear project life cycle models are those that have well-defined objectives. This model is suitable for simple projects. Besides that, the incremental life cycle model is one whereby the project steps are accomplished successively, and this model is suitable for processes. Last but not least, there is the adaptive project life cycle model, and this is one that responds to high levels of change. This model is suitable when many parties are involved in a project (Klopenborg et.al, 2019, pg.61).
References
Kloppenborg, T. J., Anantatmula, V., Wells, K.N. (2019). Contemporary project management.
Kloppenborg, T. J. (2019). Contemporary project management: Organize, lead, plan, perform