PK0-005 Project Management Concepts Practice Question
In which type of organizational structure does the project manager have the least authority?
⚠ Common exam trap
PK0-005 often tests the continuum of project manager authority across organizational structures, and candidates may incorrectly assume matrix structures give less authority than functional.
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
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Functional
In a functional organizational structure, the project manager has the least authority because team members report to functional managers, and the project manager acts more as a coordinator. The functional manager controls resources and priorities, leaving the project manager with limited 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.
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Functional
Why this is correct
In a functional organisation, authority rests with the functional manager, who controls resources, budgets and team assignments. The project manager coordinates across departments with little formal power, often acting as a coordinator or expediter rather than a true leader. This directly satisfies the stem's constraint of least project manager authority.
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Projectized
Why it's wrong here
Project managers have full authority in projectized structures.
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Balanced matrix
Why it's wrong here
A balanced matrix splits authority evenly between the functional manager and project manager, so the project manager retains shared, not least, authority. It is tempting because matrix structures blur reporting lines, yet balanced matrices still assign the project manager meaningful control over resources and scheduling decisions.
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Strong matrix
Why it's wrong here
A strong matrix grants the project manager significant authority over resources and budget, second only to a projectised structure, so it cannot be the least-authority answer. It is tempting because matrix structures do dilute functional control, but strong matrices deliberately concentrate power with the project manager rather than removing it.
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Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
This PK0-005 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the PK0-005 exam.