PK0-005 Project Management Concepts Practice Question
In a matrix organization, a project manager is struggling to get resources assigned to project tasks because the functional managers prioritize operational work. Which type of matrix organization is MOST likely in place?
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
✓
Weak matrix
In a weak matrix, the project manager has limited authority and resources are controlled by functional managers. Strong matrix gives PM more authority; balanced is in between; functional is not a matrix.
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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Strong matrix
Why it's wrong here
A strong matrix grants the project manager significant authority over resources and budgets, yet the scenario describes functional managers overriding project needs with operational priorities. This contradiction indicates the organisation lacks the project-centric resource control that a strong matrix provides. The option is tempting because a strong matrix is designed to balance power between functional and project managers, and would be correct if the project manager had leverage to enforce resource allocation against operational demands.
- ✗
Balanced matrix
Why it's wrong here
In a balanced matrix the project manager and functional manager share authority roughly equally, so resource conflicts are negotiated rather than one-sided. It is tempting because shared authority sounds like the cause, but the described functional dominance over operational work indicates a weak matrix.
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Functional
Why it's wrong here
A functional organisation has no dedicated project managers; staff report solely to functional managers, so the project manager would hold no formal resource authority at all. It is tempting because functional managers clearly dominate, but the stem states a matrix structure is in place.
- ✓
Weak matrix
Why this is correct
In a weak matrix, functional managers hold primary authority over resources and operational priorities, while the project manager has limited power to negotiate assignments. This structural imbalance explains why operational work consistently overrides project task allocation.
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