multiple reporting lines

[ˈmʌltɪpl rɪˈpɔːrtɪŋ laɪnz]
noun phrase
múltiplas linhas de reporte
1. An organizational structure where an employee reports to two or more supervisors or managers simultaneously
The project manager has multiple reporting lines, answering to both the VP of Operations and the VP of Client Services.
O gerente de projeto tem múltiplas linhas de reporte, respondendo tanto ao VP de Operações quanto ao VP de Atendimento ao Cliente.
2. A management arrangement where responsibility and accountability are shared across different hierarchical chains
In matrix organizations, employees often work under multiple reporting lines to balance project and functional responsibilities.
Em organizações matriciais, funcionários frequentemente trabalham sob múltiplas linhas de reporte para equilibrar responsabilidades de projeto e funcionais.
This structure became prevalent in Brazil and the USA during the 1980s-1990s with the adoption of matrix management in large corporations. In Brazilian business culture, multiple reporting lines can sometimes create ambiguity in decision-making authority, requiring clear communication protocols. In the USA, particularly in tech and consulting industries, this structure is normalized and often seen as beneficial for cross-functional collaboration. However, it can lead to workplace stress and confusion about priorities in both cultures.
NYC Slang
reporting to multiple bosses; having several chains of command
Synonyms / Sinônimos
dual reporting structurematrix managementmultiple supervisorsshared reporting responsibility
Antonyms / Antônimos
single reporting linedirect reportinglinear hierarchyclear reporting chain

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
múltiplas linhas de reporte
Standard corporate terminology used in large organizations
São Paulo
múltiplos gestores
Common in multinational corporations headquartered in São Paulo
Rio de Janeiro
linhas de comando múltiplas
Alternative phrasing sometimes used in government and public sector
Portugal
múltiplas linhas hierárquicas
Portuguese preference for more formal hierarchical terminology

Related Words

matrix organizationreporting structurehierarchical managementaccountabilitysupervisordotted line reporting

Related Idioms & Phrases

caught between two masters
wearing multiple hats
serving two masters
divided loyalty
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