Matrix Managers in the Org Chart (NextGen)

Contents

Overview

Traditional organization charts typically visualize only direct hierarchical relationships. However, many users operate within matrix structures that involve reporting to multiple leads or managing cross-functional teams. To provide better visibility into these complex structures without cluttering the main hierarchical view, Betterworks has introduced Matrix Reporting in the Org Chart.

This feature allows employees, managers, and leaders to instantly see non-hierarchical relationships via a dedicated side panel. By providing low-friction access to matrix data, organizations can increase visibility into cross-functional oversight while preserving the clarity of the primary org chart.

Visibility & Permissions

The ability to view matrix relationships follows your organization's existing Org Chart visibility standard. There are no additional permission constraints required to access this information. If a user has matrix managers or matrix reports assigned in their profile data (as designated by the field key (bw_link_managers) the relevant options will be visible to anyone who can view that user's card in the Org Chart.

Using Matrix Reporting in the Org Chart

Matrix relationships are accessed through a conditional Matrix button that appears on individual user cards within the Org Chart.

Access

  1. Go to the Org Chart.
  2. Locate a user card. 

    • If they have at least one matrix manager or one matrix report, a Matrix button will appear on their card.
  3. Select Matrix.
  4. The Matrix Reporting right-side panel will open, displaying the selected user's summary, including their avatar, name, job title, email, and department.

Relationship Tabs

The Matrix Reporting panel uses dynamic tabs to organize relationships. The tabs displayed depend entirely on the data available for that user:

  • Managers: Displays all matrix managers for the selected user.
  • Reports: Displays all matrix reports for the selected user.

Note: If a user only has one type of matrix relationship (e.g., they have matrix managers but no matrix reports), only the relevant tab will appear. Each tab label includes a count of the users listed within it.

Viewing Details & Profiles

Within each tab, list items are sorted alphabetically by last name. Each entry includes:

  • User Avatar
  • First and Last Name
    • Preferred Name (if applicable)
  • Job Title
  • Email
  • Department
  • View Profile link

Clicking the View Profile link will open that user's full profile in a tab.

FAQs

Why don't I see the Matrix button on certain user cards? 

The Matrix button is conditional. It only appears if the selected user has at least one matrix manager or one matrix report populated in their profile data.

Can I see matrix lines drawn directly on the Org Chart?

No. To maintain readability, matrix relationships are housed exclusively in the Matrix Reporting side panel rather than being drawn as lines in the main hierarchical view.

How are users sorted within the Matrix Reporting tabs?

Users in both the Managers and Reports tabs are sorted alphabetically by their last name.