"Matrix management" was introduced in the 1970s in the context of competition from Japanese manufacturers, computerization of many technical and administrative tasks, and a recognition among business leaders that cross-functional teams (comprised of people from different departments and specialties) were necessary to create and produce complex products rapidly. Ideally, this approach, in which people are assigned to projects, rather than department managers, encourages collaboration, flexibility, and knowledge sharing, but in reality, it can often cause confusion, friction, and excessive bureaucracy. It fell out of fashion in the 1990s, but has resurfaced in a much wider array of companies today, as the pressure to innovate on ever-faster schedules encourages experimentation in organizational design. Marvin Gottlieb, who has studied and applied the principles of matrix management for over 25 years, takes us on a tour of this phenomenon--its evolution, current practices, and future applications. He argues that most organizations are taking on characteristics of matrix structure, with fluid teams and "dotted-line" reporting relationships across departments and divisions. Featuring case studies of successes and failures, he shows readers how to harness the power of the matrix structure while minimizing the conflict, disorientation, and resistance that often accompany the approach. In an environment where every company--large or small, entrepreneurial or established--is wrestling with the question of how to organize for maximum performance in a harshly competitive world, this book will give leaders and managers valuable insights and tools for promoting cultures that reward creativity andteamwork while maintaining strong leadership and accountability.

Aimed at front-line and senior managers faced with ongoing reorganization and an increasingly reluctant workforce, this book examines what it takes to facilitate problem solving, decision-making, and workforce retention and commitment. Gottlieb explains that managers can most effectively facilitate by adopting a hands-on strategy for processes rather than tasks. This book describes the skills and tools needed for leading and managing groups with consistency, commitment, and courage.

Six core skills essential to facilitating group processes are presented: DEGREESL DEGREESDBL Initiating DEGREESL DEGREESDBL Questioning DEGREESL DEGREESDBL Active Listening DEGREESL DEGREESDBL Responding DEGREESL DEGREESDBL Resolving DEGREESL DEGREESDBL Closing/Committing DEGREESL Gottlieb discusses the most helpful tools a manager can use for facilitation, including planning, organizing, and directing group processes. Ethical guidelines are provided in conjunction with a discussion of the manager's role