PK0-005 Project Management Concepts Practice Question
In which organizational structure does the project manager have the least authority?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap is mixing up the matrix variants — candidates often think 'matrix' always means shared authority, but the question asks for the least authority, which is the purely functional structure, not any matrix type.
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
✓
Functional
In a functional organization, work is grouped by department (e.g., engineering, marketing) and the functional manager controls resources, budgets, and priorities. The project manager typically has little to no formal authority, often acting as a coordinator or expediter who must negotiate for resources and rely on influence rather than positional power.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Functional
Why this is correct
In a functional organisation, authority rests with functional managers and the project manager acts largely as coordinator, holding minimal power over resources and priorities. This structure therefore gives the project manager the least authority of the options.
- ✗
Balanced matrix
Why it's wrong here
In a balanced matrix, authority is shared between the functional manager and the project manager, so the project manager retains meaningful influence over resources and priorities. It is tempting because matrix structures dilute authority generally, but balanced matrix sits between weak matrix and strong matrix, not at the lowest end.
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Projectized
Why it's wrong here
Projectized structures grant the project manager the greatest authority, controlling resources, budget and team allocation directly. It is tempting because projectized organisations centralise power around projects, which sounds restrictive, yet that centralisation is exactly what maximises the project manager's control rather than minimising it.
- ✗
Strong matrix
Why it's wrong here
A strong matrix gives the project manager considerable authority, often more than the functional manager, over assigned resources and project decisions. It is tempting because the matrix label suggests shared, weakened control, yet in a strong matrix the balance tips decisively towards the project manager.
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Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
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