Matrix of Working Relationships

The Matrix of Working Relationships model provides the theoretical foundation for Bioss’s organisational design and development work.

It identifies seven levels of work, on the basis of complexity and time-span of decision-making. No level is more important than another, and each level has a specific value-adding theme that provides a unique contribution to the flow of work within organisations.

The Matrix can be viewed as a whole or divided into three parts:

The Operational Matrix

Levels 1, 2 and 3, where the themes of quality, service and practice focus on adding value for the present, and results become apparent within a time horizon of less than two years.

The Organisational Matrix

Levels 4 and 5, where themes of strategic development and strategic intent focus on longer-term objectives of the organisation, and time horizons can stretch up to ten years.

The Strategic Matrix

Levels 6 and 7, where themes of corporate citizenship and corporate prescience focus on long-term strategic functioning and sustained viability of organisations for future generations, with time frames exceeding 25 years.

The Matrix of Working Relationships makes manifest the unique perspective of each level on the work that needs to be done, the part each level plays in providing for and linking the work of the other levels, and the particular contact each level makes with the outside world.

Through this deliberate focus on interconnectedness, Bioss offers its clients a way to look between two points at a third. To analyse not just the organisation and the environment in which it operates, but also the relationship between them. To understand not just the organisation and the individual, but the visible and invisible ways in which they interact. To appreciate not just the individual and their inner resources, but their combination in the dynamic phenomenon that is capability.

Next: