Matrix Diagram
Six differently shaped matrices are possible: L, T, Y, X, C and roof–shaped, depending on how many groups must be compared.
When to Use Each Matrix Diagram Shape
Table 1 summarizes when to use each type of matrix. Also click on the links below to see an example of each type. In the examples, matrix axes have been shaded to emphasize the letter that gives each matrix its name.
- An L–shaped matrix relates two groups of items to each other (or one group to itself).
- A T–shaped matrix relates three groups of items: groups B and C are each related to A. Groups B and C are not related to each other.
- A Y–shaped matrix relates three groups of items. Each group is related to the other two in a circular fashion.
- A C–shaped matrix relates three groups of items all together simultaneously, in 3-D.
- An X–shaped matrix relates four groups of items. Each group is related to two others in a circular fashion.
- A roof–shaped matrix relates one group of items to itself. It is usually used along with an L – or T–shaped matrix.
Table 1: When to use differently-shaped matrices
|
L-shaped |
2 groups |
A |
|
T-shaped |
3 groups |
B |
|
Y-shaped |
3 groups |
A |
|
C-shaped |
3 groups |
All three simultaneously (3-D) |
|
X-shaped |
4 groups |
A |
|
Roof-shaped |
1 group |
A |
B (or A L-Shaped Matrix Diagram
This L-shaped matrix summarizes customers’ requirements. The team placed numbers in the boxes to show numerical specifications and used check marks to show choice of packaging. The L-shaped matrix actually forms an upside-down L. This is the most basic and most common matrix format.
Customer Requirements
|
Customer
D |
Customer
M |
Customer
R |
Customer
T |
|
|
Purity %
|
> 99.2
|
> 99.2
|
> 99.4
|
> 99.0
|
|
Trace metals (ppm)
|
< 5
|
—
|
< 10
|
< 25
|
|
Water (ppm)
|
< 10
|
< 5
|
< 10
|
—
|
|
Viscosity (cp)
|
20-35
|
20-30
|
10-50
|
15-35
|
|
Color
|
< 10
|
< 10
|
< 15
|
< 10
|
|
Drum
|
 |
|||
|
Truck
|
|
|
||
| Railcar |
|
T-Shaped Matrix Diagram
This T-shaped matrix relates product models (group A) to their manufacturing locations (group B) and to their customers (group C).
Examining the matrix in different ways reveals different information. For example, concentrating on model A, we see that it is produced in large volume at the Texas plant and in small volume at the Alabama plant. Time Inc. is the major customer for model A, while Arlo Co. buys a small amount. If we choose to focus on the customer rows, we learn that only one customer, Arlo, buys all four models. Zig buys just one. Time makes large purchases of A and D, while Lyle is a relatively minor customer.
Products—Customers—Manufacturing Locations
Y-Shaped Matrix Diagram
This Y-shaped matrix shows the relationships between customer requirements, internal process metrics and the departments involved. Symbols show the strength of the relationships: primary relationships, such as the manufacturing department’s responsibility for production capacity; secondary relationships, such as the link between product availability and inventory levels; minor relationships, such as the distribution department’s responsibility for order lead time; and no relationship, such as between the purchasing department and on-time delivery.
The matrix tells an interesting story about on-time delivery. The distribution department is assigned primary responsibility for that customer requirement. The two metrics most strongly related to on-time delivery are inventory levels and order lead time. Of the two, distribution has only a weak relationship with order lead time and none with inventory levels. Perhaps the responsibility for on-time delivery needs to be reconsidered. Based on the matrix, where would you put responsibility for on-time delivery?
Responsibilities for Performance to Customer Requirements 
C-Shaped Matrix Diagram
Think of C meaning “cube.” Because this matrix is three-dimensional, it is difficult to draw and infrequently used. If it is important to compare three groups simultaneously, consider using a three-dimensional model or computer software that can provide a clear visual image.
This figure shows one point on a C-shaped matrix relating products, customers and manufacturing locations. Zig Company’s model B is made at the Mississippi plant.
X-Shaped Matrix Diagram
This figure extends the T-shaped matrix example into an X-shaped matrix by including the relationships of freight lines with the manufacturing sites they serve and the customers who use them. Each axis of the matrix is related to the two adjacent ones, but not to the one across. Thus, the product models are related to the plant sites and to the customers, but not to the freight lines.
A lot of information can be contained in an X-shaped matrix. In this one, we can observe that Red Lines and Zip Inc., which seem to be minor carriers based on volume, are the only carriers that serve Lyle Co. Lyle doesn’t buy much, but it and Arlo are the only customers for model C. Model D is made at three locations, while the other models are made at two. What other observations can you make?
Manufacturing Sites—Products—Customers—Freight Lines 
Roof-Shaped Matrix Diagram
The roof-shaped matrix is used with an L- or T-shaped matrix to show one group of items relating to itself. It is most commonly used with a house of quality, where it forms the “roof” of the “house.” In the figure below, the customer requirements are related to one another. For example, a strong relationship links color and trace metals, while viscosity is unrelated to any of the other requirements.
Frequently Used Matrix Diagram Symbols
Excerpted from Nancy R. Tague’s The Quality Toolbox, Second Edition, ASQ Quality Press, 2004, pages 338-344.
http://asq.org/learn-about-quality/new-management-planning-tools/overview/matrix-diagram.html
