PROJECTS FOR ODC/OPD 2019

Projects this year will focus on analyzing the context, structure, and effectiveness of any
organization that is following a matrix structure. You can start with any organization you have
access to, eg. your last place of work, where alumni can give you access, etc. You can choose the level
of analysis as the country operations or lower, so that the analysis does not get too complicated.
Preference should be given to companies operating in emerging industries like e-
commerce/telecom/healthcare/retail.

Start with an analysis of the principal stakeholders and their expectations from the company, using
the Stakeholder Analysis Tool handout circulated in class. This should lead you to an understanding of
which goals are critical for the organization at this point in time. This should allow you to understand
the dimensions chosen in the matrix.

Next examine all contextual variables using the frameworks we have covered in class, and the
implications for the structure. This should help you to justify why a matrix is needed, and which
dimensions are matrixed, and why.

Then examine how the matrix actually works in practice. You will need to interact physically with a
matrixed employee/manager to understand this. Address what it does well and what problems it
causes.

Lastly, address the organization design changes that are in place/need to be made to make the matrix
structure work effectively, using the Organizational Alignment exercise circulated in class. Also try to
use the OCAI instrument circulated in class.

This is expected to be a field project based on primary data. Secondary data based projects will
be evaluated at a lower level.

Your project should discuss:

1. Need for matrix in terms of organizational goals

2. Which dimensions are matrixed and why
3. Advantages/Disadvantages in terms of organizational goals
4. How to cope with the disadvantages of matrix (Systems and Processes/Culture)

Deliverables:

1. A 10 page written report (TNR, font 11, 1.5 spacing), appendices not included
2. A 15 minute presentation in class

CRs responsible for ensuring no duplication of organizations chosen.