Chapter 2 - Collaboration Flashcards
Collaboration
A group of people working together to achieve a common goal via a process of feedback and iteration. Something is produced, members criticize it, and then another version is produced. The results can be better than what any single individual can produce alone.
Cooperation
A group of people working together, all doing essentially the same type of work, to accomplish a job. A cooperative group can do a task faster than an individual, but the cooperative result is usually not better in quality.
12 Most Important Characteristics For An Effective Collaborator
1) Enthusiastic about subject
2) open-minded and curious
* 3) Speaks their mind even if it’s an unpopular viewpoint
4) Responsive in a timely manner
* 5) Willing to enter into difficult conversations
6) Perceptive listener
* 7) Skillful at giving/receiving negative feedback
* 8) Willing to put forward unpopular ideas
9) self managing and “low maintenance”
10) Follows through on commitments
11) Willing to dig into topic with zeal
* 12) thinks differently/brings different perspectives
Guidelines for Giving and Receiving Critical Feedback
- Be specific
- Offer suggestions
- Avoid personal comments
- Strive for balance
- Question your emotions
- Do not dominate
- Demonstrate a commitment to the group
3 Criteria for Successful Collaboration
- Successful outcome
- Growth in team capability
- Meaningful and satisfying experience
(J. Richard Hackman - Leading Teams)
Four Primary Purposes of Collaboration
- Become informed
- Make decisions
- Solve problems
- Manage projects
Operational Decisions
Decisions that support operational, day-to-day activities.
Managerial Decisions
Decisions about the allocation and utilization of resources.
Strategic Decisions
Decisions that support broad-scope, organizational issues.
Structured Decision Process
There is an understood and accepted method for making the decision. Seldom requires collaboration.
Unstructured Decision Process
There is no agreed-on decision-making method. Often collaborative.
Problem
A perceived difference between what is and what ought to be. Because it is a perception, different people can have different definitions. The most important task is defining the problem.
4 Project Phases
1) Starting Phase
2) Planning Phase
3) Doing Phase
4) Finalizing Phase
Starting Phase
Set team authority. Set project scope and initial budget. Establish team roles, responsibilities, and authorities. Establish team rules.
Planning Phase
Determine tasks and dependencies. Assign tasks. Determine schedule. Revise budget.
