It happens everyday. Groups and teams are formed to work together on projects and problems. Some-times the members are familiar with each other, sometimes not. There usually is a kickoff meeting outlining purpose, and possibly a project slogan is introduced. Coffee mugs displaying the slogan may even be distributed to remind team members of their focus. In addition, T-shirts may be distributed to help the group feel cohesive and identify with each other. And then they’re off and running!

Checking in later, we may find some progress, but often we also find wasted time, duplication of efforts, paralyzing politics, lack of role clarity, poor communications, and poorly designed meetings. All this adds up to inefficient performance and wasted money.

Sound familiar? So what can you do to improve performance, achieve goals more quickly and at a lower cost?

Attention to the stages of team development and related interventions will certainly put you on the right track. Recognize that teams (groups) go through 5 stages in their development, and it is critical that each stage be carefully planned and executed. Timing for each stage will be influenced by deadlines and the competency of the team leader.

FORMING - To begin, the group must form. Members need time and structure to learn about each other, what will be acceptable behavior, determining their real task, and defining group rules. Facilitation of planning efforts, training in effective meeting skills, and team development are necessary to optimize team efforts.

STORMING - During this stage, members learn about one another’s interpersonal styles and how they influence the team. In this stage, activities may be highly emotional and create tensions. These emotions and tensions need to be addressed and resolved. There may be hostility and infighting, and the team may experience change as they work through resolving these issues.

Assessments, such as the HBDI, can be utilized to raise awareness of individual thinking preferences, and build a team profile. During this stage, skill in conflict management will help achieve a more cohesive team.

NORMING - This is the stage where the team begins to come together as a coordinated unit. However, after the emotions of storming, this stage of harmony may tempt members to sacrifice exploring minority viewpoints at the expense of maintaining balance. Brainstorming and feedback must continue, allowing new ideas to be surfaced while balancing productivity. Skill development in creative thinking, and problem solving are essential. At this stage, providing coaching for leaders will help optimize team performance.

PERFORMING - In this stage the team emerges as a mature, organized and well-functioning group. They deal with conflict and complex tasks in a creative way. Continuing to develop relationships and team performance, while valuing continued improvement will require team members to actively reflect and incorporate learnings.

ADJOURNING - When the work is complete, the team will disband. Celebration of accomplishments, discovery of lessons learned and opportunity to work together on future projects should be honored.

How would you rate your teams for effectiveness, productivity, and results? If you find there is room for improvement, call us to help you explore your options

© Debbie King, Evolution Management, Inc.  All Rights Reserved.