Understanding Groups and Teams

Group refers to two or more cooperating and dependent people who work together to attain specific objectives. There are mainly two types of groups:

Formal groups are the work groups defined by the organization’s structure that have designated work assignments and tasks

Informal groups are the groups that are formed to meet the social needs of their members

Stages of Group Development

Forming stage - the first stage of group development in which people join the group and then define the group’s purpose, structure, and leadership

Storming stage - the second stage of group development, characterized by intragroup conflict

Norming stage - the third stage of group development, characterized by close relationships and cohesiveness.

Performing stage - the fourth stage of group development when the group is fully functional and works on group tasks.

Adjourning - the final stage of group development for temporary groups during which group members are concerned with wrapping up activities rather than task performance.

Team:

A team is a group whose members work intensely on a specific, common goal using their positive synergy, individual and mutual accountability, and complementary skills.

Advantages of Using Teams

Teams typically outperform individuals.

Teams use employee talents better.

Teams are more flexible and responsive to changes in the environment.

Teams facilitate employee involvement.

Teams are an effective way to democratize and organization and increase motivation.

Characteristics of Effective Teams

Have a clear understanding of their goals

Have competent members with relevant technical and interpersonal skills

Exhibit high mutual trust in the character and integrity of their  members

Are unified in their commitment to team goals

Have good communication systems

Possess effective negotiating skills

Have appropriate leadership

Have both internally and externally supportive environments

Types of Teams

1. Problem-Solving Teams

Groups of 5 to 12 employees from the same department who meet for a few hours each week to discuss ways of improving quality, efficiency, and the work environment.

2. Self-Managed Work Teams

Groups of 10 to 15 people who take on the responsibilities of their supervisors.

3. Cross-Functional Teams

Employees from about the same hierarchical level, but from different work areas, who come together to accomplish a task.

4. Virtual Teams

Teams that use computer technology to tie together physically dispersed members in order to achieve a common goal.