Project Organisation Chart

Posted by SkillMaker in Dec, 2016

Project Organisation Chart

A project organisation chart displays, in diagrammatic form, the hierarchical relationships between those involved on a project. Basically, it depicts, from the most senior person down, who reports to whom on the project. It also includes any temporary personnel (e.g. specialist experts, assigned to the project team for a fixed term).

More complex versions of a project organisation chart, used for larger projects or teams, may display this hierarchy for a number of different areas of the project. For example, for a new public building complex it might separately depict team reporting hierarchies for the main building on one hand, and ancillary buildings on the other—and how these are linked ultimately to the Project Manager.

Features of a project organization chart

It is important to have a clearly defined project organization chart so that every participant knows who is responsible for what on a project. It should depict clear lines of responsibility. Participants know whom their line manager is and who he or she, in turn, reports to. They also know if their line manager has any lateral links (for consultation etc.) in their roles with other staff members. This means that team members and stakeholders know whom to talk to if they have specific questions or concerns about the project.

The most important aspect of a project organisation chart is that it shows who the Project Manager is and what his or her immediate working relationships are with support staff. This is key, as the Project Manager has ultimate responsibility for the project.

A project organisational chart is usually created close to the start of the project, when the project team is being compiled and may help to shape team recruitment. The chart can be altered as the project progresses.

Additional information

For more information about project organizational charts, please visit: https://wiki.cac.washington.edu/display/pmportal/Hierarchical+Project+Organization+Chart