Matrix structures, quality of working life, and engineering productivity

Organizational structures must be related to the type of work being performed, but they must also meet the needs of individuals working in the organization. The relationships between matrix structures and quality of working life values are explored, as they appear in Quebec engineering projects. The impact of matrix structures on work motivation and satisfaction is investigated, when comparisons are made with a traditional pyramidal “one-boss” structure. Finally the perceptions of engineers on the relationship between matrix and productivity are looked at, taking into account their own work and the project as a whole. The implications of the above for engineering management are expounded.