Question

There are many different types of groups that can exist in an organization, and these will often vary depending on the size and type of organization. Using your company, or one you are familiar with, discuss the following questions:

• What are the similarities and differences of formal and informal work groups?
• What role does diversity play in a group? What are the advantages and disadvantages to having a highly diverse group on a project?
• What role does organizational culture play in the level of success in a work group?

Answer 1

The similarities between formal and informal groups are that

1)In both Formal and informal groups, information is shared.

2)The goal is the same for both the groups but the approach can be different.

3)Formal and informal group both have members who behave the same in both the groups.

Differences

1)Formal groups have strict policies on communication and behaviours while there are no restrictions in informal groups.

2)Informal groups have a faster decision-making process than formal groups.

3)Formal groups have more checks and balances than informal groups.

4)Organizational structure is defined in formal groups whereas it is not defined in informal groups.

Diversity plays the key role of providing members from various roles and backgrounds and ensure that proper representation is there in groups.The key role of diversity is to ensure that homogenous groups are avoided and ideas and understanding grows with different views and opinions.Diversity provides a greater understanding of people and therefore helps the team to solve problems and issues. Varied opinions can be good for the teams which can take these into account while providing solutions.

The advantages of having a diverse group in a project is that variety of opinions and ideas that will be generated. There will be different ways to approach the project and due to diversity, complex problems can be understood much easily. The disadvantages are that due to the variety of opinions, there maybe conflicts within the teams. Teams might not work with each other easily as they may be differences in their work culture. Different styles of personalities may clash and derail the project.

Organizational culture provides the workgroup with a framework on the behaviours expected within the organization and outside it. It guides the workgroups with a do's and dont's and helps in guiding the group to make ethical decisions. It also helps members to interact with each other in a positive way .