Team
In their groundbreaking study called TEAMWORK - What must go Right, What can go Wrong, (a study of 32 teams from a variety of teams ranging from manufacturing to service to non-profits and governmental agencies) Carl Larson and Frank LaFasto describe eight characteristics of effective teams.
They are:
1. A clear, elevating goal and vision
2. A results-driven structure
3. Competent team members
4. A unified commitment
5. A collaborative climate
6. Standards of excellence
7. External support and recognition
8. Principled leadership
These are, according to Larson and LaFasto, crucial to team success and a weakness in any of them canndermine the team.
The primary item that wrecks teams, according to the study, is "when the self interest of an individual exceeds that of the team."
In the text of this book, there is one overriding thought, especially in the discussion of collaboration and that is Trust.
Without trust, and the attendant respect for the abilities of our peers, the team cannot perform. It is one of the virtues and values that must permeate top professional teams like the Partnership. Trust is fragile and once broken, much like Humpty Dumpty, it is not likely to be regained without extraordinary effort.
We have to be able to trust our colleagues and team members in order to be open, thoughtful and collaborative.
Trust is primary. Open communication is possible on in an environment of trust.
(originally written on (9/1/92)
Jk
They are:
1. A clear, elevating goal and vision
2. A results-driven structure
3. Competent team members
4. A unified commitment
5. A collaborative climate
6. Standards of excellence
7. External support and recognition
8. Principled leadership
These are, according to Larson and LaFasto, crucial to team success and a weakness in any of them canndermine the team.
The primary item that wrecks teams, according to the study, is "when the self interest of an individual exceeds that of the team."
In the text of this book, there is one overriding thought, especially in the discussion of collaboration and that is Trust.
Without trust, and the attendant respect for the abilities of our peers, the team cannot perform. It is one of the virtues and values that must permeate top professional teams like the Partnership. Trust is fragile and once broken, much like Humpty Dumpty, it is not likely to be regained without extraordinary effort.
We have to be able to trust our colleagues and team members in order to be open, thoughtful and collaborative.
Trust is primary. Open communication is possible on in an environment of trust.
(originally written on (9/1/92)
Jk