PK0-005 Project Management Concepts Practice Question
A project manager is leading a team in an organization where team members are assigned to multiple projects and report to both a functional manager and the project manager. The project manager has moderate authority over the team. Which organizational structure does this describe?
⚠ Common exam trap
PK0-005 often tests the authority level keywords — 'moderate authority' and dual reporting — tricking candidates who confuse balanced matrix with strong matrix or functional structures.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Balanced matrix
A balanced matrix organization gives the project manager moderate authority while functional managers retain control over resources and team members report to both. This dual reporting and shared authority is the defining characteristic of a balanced matrix, distinguishing it from functional (low PM authority) and strong matrix (high PM authority).
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Functional
Why it's wrong here
A functional structure gives the functional manager sole authority over resources, with the project manager holding little to none; team members would not report jointly to both. It is tempting because functional teams do share staff across work, but that sharing is directed by the functional manager, not a moderate-authority project manager.
- ✓
Balanced matrix
Why this is correct
A balanced matrix shares authority between the functional manager and the project manager, who holds moderate power over resources. This matches the stem's dual reporting lines and moderate project manager authority, unlike weak or strong matrix variants.
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Strong matrix
Why it's wrong here
A strong matrix grants the project manager high authority over resources, exceeding the functional manager's, whereas the stem specifies only moderate authority. It is tempting because strong matrix teams are indeed shared across projects and report to two managers, but the balance of power differs from balanced matrix.
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Projectized
Why it's wrong here
Projectized structures place team members under the project manager's near-total authority, with no functional manager to report to; staff are not shared across multiple projects. It appeals because projectized teams are dedicated and colocated, which suits long, self-contained projects needing fast decisions.
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Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
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