Ultimately, the most successful matrix-style managers do not treat their organization as a matrix. They engage the framework to structure cross-functional initiatives and tap the talent within them.

The most simple definition of cross-functional teams (or CFTs) is groups that are made up of people from different functional areas within a company—marketing, engineering, sales, and human ...

1. Design infrastructure for your cross-functional teams. Today’s organizations are, almost without exception, structured by org charts. Org charts have been around for a long time, becoming ...

Cross-functional teams that blend IT and business professionals are nothing new, but now they have become almost a mandate. At Sun Life, such teams are referred to as “agile teams,’’ and CIO ...

To harness the power of cross-functional collaboration, leaders can take several actionable steps: 1. Identify Key Business Outcomes: Determine which opportunities can drive the business forward ...

Abel believes that cross-functional teams are essential for innovation in this digital age — and should have room to learn and grow as teams — but he also says they need boundaries and oversight.

By definition, cross-functional teaming entails multiple competing tasks and priorities. Without a clear path for organizing and making forward progress, teams typically get stuck or fail to execute.

Cross-functional teams are important to the success of your business, so knowing the best ways to deal with conflict is an important skill for all managers and business leaders.