Matrix Org Charts Made Easy

Show dual reporting relationships with dotted lines. Perfect for matrix organizations, cross-functional teams, and complex hierarchies.

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What is a Matrix Organization Chart?

A matrix org chart shows employees who report to multiple managers. Solid lines indicate primary (direct) reporting. Dotted lines show secondary relationships — functional managers, project leads, or cross-functional partnerships.

Matrix Org Chart Example

Direct report Secondary/functional

When to Use Dotted Line Reporting

Matrix Organizations

Employees report to both a functional manager (e.g., Engineering) and a project/product manager.

Cross-Functional Teams

Squad members from different departments working on the same product or initiative.

Global Organizations

Regional managers who also report to functional leads at HQ.

Consulting & Professional Services

Consultants assigned to client projects while maintaining functional reporting.

Mentorship & Development

Show mentors, sponsors, or career coaches alongside direct managers.

Project-Based Work

Temporary reporting to project managers while keeping functional home.

How to Add Dotted Lines in OrgCanvas

Select a person in your org chart
Click "Add Dotted Line" in the edit panel (or press D)
Click the secondary manager to create the relationship
Done! The dotted line appears automatically with proper routing

You can also import dotted lines from CSV using a "Secondary Manager" column.