Question

Discuss the stages of team development. Address the process, problems, and level of productivity of each.

Answer 1

The 5 stages of team development process are explained as below, along with the problems and level of productivity of each

Stage 1: Forming

This is the initial stage of a team development. In this stage, the team members who are all new to one another come together with the purpose of forming a team which would work together to achieve a common goal/purpose. There is hesitancy and no free flow of communication at this stage as the team members are vary of each other and are looking forward to get to know one another.

In this stage, there is no productivity as the team has not yet started performing towards their common goal. However, the team can face problems where the team members are cautious with their behavior towards rest of the team and do not open up comfortably. This could affect the future performance of the team where the team members can lack coordination between one another.

Stage 2 : Storming

In this stage the team members have got to know one another to some extent. As a result of which, there can be a few conflicts and disagreements. These conflicts can arise due to the difference of opinions and understandings between the team members. At this stage, it is necessary for the leaders of the team to take charge to sort the conflicts and misunderstandings between the team members so as to help in the smooth functioning of the team.

Due to these conflicts, the productivity remains low in this stage also.

Stage 3: Norming

?In this stage, the team relationships and communication improves and the team members start working towards their common goal. Interdependency and relationships grow in the team and the team starts functioning.Th team members begin to gain motivation and team spirit.

Productivity levels begin to increase in this stage due to the developing work relationships and interdependency.

Stage 4: Performing

At this stage, the team members are fully aware of their individual roles and competencies and begin to work on them. Flexibility and trust have developed within the team members and the team is aware of the common goal/purpose of the team.

The team may face the problem of minor conflicts or disagreements between the team members. However, they have developed the capability of solving these amicably. Productivity levels re highest at this stage as the team is working with the sole purpose of reaching their goals.

Stage 5: Adjourning

This is the final stage. In this stage, the team members have achieved their common goal and the team is broken up. After this, the members can move on to new projects.

This stage can prove difficult for some members who had developed close relationships with the team members and can also prove to be challenging to those members who do not have any suitable projects to work for in the immediate future.