Project structures- FUNCTIONAL

Question 1

Relation between project managers an the organisational structure

Answer 1

Project managers inherit the organisational structure

Can’t change it, have to exist within it

Question 2

Three types of project structures

Answer 2

• Functional
• Matrix
• Dedicated project teams (projectised)

Question 3

Why is it important for project managers to understand organizational structures?

Answer 3

It’s important because the organizational structure influences how project managers work, their authority, and how projects are organized, which can lead to various challenges.

Question 4

What is a functional structure in project management?

Answer 4

A functional structure assigns projects to existing departments based on their expertise.

For example, a marketing department needing a new website would work with the IT department for technical support.

Question 5

Who typically acts as the project manager in a functional structure?

Answer 5

The project manager is usually someone from the department that is most invested in the project, such as the marketing manager in the website example.

Question 6

What are some advantages of a functional structure?

Answer 6

Advantages include easy team creation, the development of departmental expertise, and team members returning to their regular roles after project completion (disband after completion).

Question 7

What are some disadvantages of a functional structure?

Answer 7

Disadvantages include a weak project manager role (members not skilled at project management), limited authority, hard to acquire resources, complex communication, and unclear motivation for team members.

Question 8

How does the power of the project manager change with different structures?

Answer 8

The power of the project manager varies; in a functional structure, they have limited authority and rely on coordination rather than direct control.