She has three supervisors, and he has six. She works on five projects, and he has four. Although their paths rarely cross, they have something in common—they’re both part of a matrix organization.

Unlike a traditional workplace where employees have one boss and a chain of supervision, matrix organizations mix and match projects and supervisors. A matrix framework presents opportunities and challenges. The secret to success in this crisscross world is finding the opportunities and minimizing the challenges at every turn.

What kinds of workers and workplaces work well for a matrix structure?

Matrix structures work best when employees are driven to succeed, and the organization is clear about priorities and goals. Absent those two ingredients, the matrix will probably disappoint.

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