What is a Matrix diagram?

 A matrix diagram is used for analyzing and displaying the

relationship between different data sets.
 It is a beneficial Management and Planning Tool also this tool is a
part of New 7 QC Tools.
 We can use this tool to show the relationship between different
two, three, or four group data.
 Matrix_Diagram is a perfect choice for analyizing complex
relationships that we need to think in multi dimension.
 This tool is used to understand the relationship between different
parameters and characteristics.
 Basically, this tool is a table that allows us to compare different
sets of data, and based on that we can take the appropriate
decision.
 We can use this tool as a part of decision-making tools like Quality
Function Deployment and Cause and Effect Matrix.

When to Use Matrix Diagram

 It is used to understand the relationship between (1) Problems and
solutions, and (2) Cause and Effects.
 We can use to check the requirements are matched with
specifications or not?
 Comparing the consequence of alternative solutions.
 It is used to identify opportunities for improvement.
 We can use this tool for assigning responsibilities based on
personnel skills and knowledge and also used for the analysis of
Characteristics, Specifications & Features, Functions, & Tasks,
Ideas & Solutions, etc...

Different types of Matrix Diagrams

The different types are mentioned below. It is classified based on the
shape of the_diagram.
 L-type
 T-type
 Y-type
 X-type
 C-type QFD Type (Quality Function Deployment)
How to Select the Matrix Diagram Type?
We can see the summary in the below picture of which type of
Matrix_Diagram we need to use at the time of our analysis. This method
is totally dependent based on the group of information that we have.

 We can use an L-shaped_matrix for comparing two_groups of

items to each other (or one group to itself).
 The T-shaped_matrix is used to compare when we have
three_groups of items and the comparing pattern is like groups B
and C both are related to group A. But the groups B and C are not
related to each other.
 A Y-shaped_matrix is used to compare three_groups of items
when each group is related to the other two in a circular pattern.
 The C-shaped_matrix is used to compare when we have three
groups of items and all 3 groups_need to compare together
simultaneously, in 3D.
  An X-shaped_matrix is used to compare the four groups of items
available and the comparing patterns are like each group is related
to the other two groups in a circular pattern not in a random
pattern.
 Generally, a roof-shaped_matrix is used to compare the one group
of items to itself, and also it is usually used along with an L- or T-
shaped_matrix.

How to make a Matrix Diagram?

STEP 1: Define the Purpose

 In the first step of the matrix_diagram, we need to decide the
purpose or the objective of this.
 That means we need to be very clear about what kind of details we
need to analyze.
STEP 2: Form a Team
After defining the purpose of the Matrix_diagram form a team for further
activity.
STEP 3: Prepare the List of Matrix and Identify the Relationship
 After team formation, now we need to identify the various lists of
the_matrix for data analysis.
  We can create this list with the help of the team and brainstorming
tool.
 Also, we need to understand the relationships between the lists.
STEP 4: Select the Matrix Type
 Now based on the lists of_matrix and relationships of data we need
to select the matrix_types as mentioned in the above table.
 As per the Matrix_type perform a further activity for placing various
lists of data into the selected_matrix.
STEP 5: Identify, Discuss and Conclude the Relationships
 This step is the most important step of this tool.
 In this step, we need to identify, discuss with the team, and finally
conclude the relationship between the lists of the_matrix.
 For this step, if require then also we need to perform the validation
activity as per the relationship.
 We can use the Scatter Diagram Method for validation purposes.
STEP 6: Final Conclusion
 After completing the all above 5 steps, in the last step, we need to
close this activity by sharing the final conclusion of the defined
purpose with the team.
 Once the Matrix_Diagram completed then it should be reviewed
against that the purpose that we have decided in the very first step.

Example and Case Study of Matrix Diagram

Out of different types of matrix_diagram, we will discuss here the L-
Shaped, T-Shaped, and X-Shaped_Diagram

Example of L-Shaped Matrix Diagram

 We can use an L-shaped_matrix for comparing two groups of items
to each other (or one group to itself).
 An L-shaped_matrix diagram can compare two lists of groups.
 This is the most basic, very popular, and most used_diagram.
 In this diagram, a two-dimensional table is used to represent the
data sets. Data sets are shown in the below picture.
 Also in the below picture, we can see the relation between the data
available in set 1 and set 2.
 As normal, we can show the relationship between set 1 and set 2
data with the help of an arrow.
 So, we can easily see the L- Shaped Matrix_Diagram in the below
picture. It is a very easy diagram to use.
 For making the L shape_diagram, we need to arrange the set 1
data on the left side in one column while the other set's data can be
put into the top row as shown in the below picture.

 Now we can use this diagram as a Prioritization Tool with the help
of assigning numbers or symbols.
 The numbers and symbols will show the strength of the
relationship.
 Assigned weighting can be used for prioritization and ranking.
 Other information can be displayed including: (i) The totals and (ii)
The overall strength of the relationship.
Example of T-Shaped Matrix Diagram
 The T-shaped_matrix is used to compare when we have three
groups of items and the comparing pattern is like groups B and C
both are related to group A.
 But the groups B and C are not related to each other.
 The T-type is effectively two L-types joined by a single list. It allows
one list to be related to two others.
 For a better understanding of the T-shaped Matrix_Diagram refer
to the below template.

Example of X-Shaped Matrix Diagram

 The X-Shaped_Matrix is a combination of four L-type matrices.
 We can use an X-shaped_matrix when we need to compare the
four groups of items available and the comparing patterns are like
 each group is related to the other two groups in a circular pattern
not in a random pattern.
 For a better understanding of the X-shaped Matrix_Diagram refer
to the below template.

Benefits of Matrix Diagram

 It is a very effective tool for comparison of one to one or many to
many.
 It is very easy to understand and very easy to explain.
 This tool can solve complex problems very quickly and easily.
 We can use this tool for multi-purpose.