Functional Project vs. Pure Project

Attribute	Functional Project	Pure Project
Project Manager	Part-time	Full-time
Team Members	Assigned from different functional areas	Dedicated to the project
Authority	Shared with functional managers	Centralized in project manager
Communication	Vertical and horizontal	Primarily vertical
Focus	Functional goals	Project goals

Introduction

When it comes to project management, there are various approaches that organizations can take to achieve their goals. Two common project management structures are Functional Project and Pure Project. Each of these structures has its own set of attributes that can impact the success of a project. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Functional Project and Pure Project to help you understand the differences between the two.

Functional Project

Functional Project is a project management structure where team members are assigned based on their functional expertise. In this structure, team members report to a functional manager who is responsible for their performance and development. The project manager in a Functional Project is often a part-time role, with the functional manager playing a more significant role in decision-making.

• Team members are experts in their respective fields
• Functional managers have more control over team members
• Project manager role is often part-time
• Focus is on functional expertise
• Communication can be more streamlined within functional departments

Pure Project

Pure Project, on the other hand, is a project management structure where team members are dedicated solely to the project. In this structure, team members report directly to the project manager, who has full authority over the project. The project manager in a Pure Project is a full-time role, with a focus on project planning, execution, and monitoring.

• Team members are dedicated solely to the project
• Project manager has full authority over the project
• Project manager role is full-time
• Focus is on project planning and execution
• Communication can be more direct between team members and project manager

Comparison of Attributes

When comparing the attributes of Functional Project and Pure Project, several key differences emerge. In a Functional Project, team members are experts in their respective fields, which can lead to high-quality work within their functional areas. However, the project manager in a Functional Project may have limited authority over team members, as functional managers often have more control.

On the other hand, in a Pure Project, team members are dedicated solely to the project, allowing for a more focused approach to project planning and execution. The project manager in a Pure Project has full authority over the project, which can lead to quicker decision-making and more efficient project management.

Communication in a Functional Project may be more streamlined within functional departments, as team members report to their functional managers. This can lead to better coordination within the team but may also result in silos between functional areas. In contrast, communication in a Pure Project is often more direct between team members and the project manager, allowing for quicker feedback and problem-solving.

Overall, the choice between Functional Project and Pure Project will depend on the specific needs and goals of the organization. Functional Project may be more suitable for organizations with a strong focus on functional expertise, while Pure Project may be better for organizations looking for a more dedicated and focused approach to project management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Functional Project and Pure Project are two common project management structures with distinct attributes that can impact the success of a project. Understanding the differences between these two structures can help organizations make informed decisions about which approach is best suited to their needs. By considering factors such as team expertise, authority, communication, and focus, organizations can choose the project management structure that aligns with their goals and objectives.