Teams and Teamwork Flashcards
What is the Input-Process-Output (IPO) Model?
The IPO model provides a structured way to analyse team functioning by categorising performance factors into Inputs, Processes, and Outputs. This model is widely used to understand how inputs affect processes, which influence team performance outputs or outcomes.
What are inputs?
Inputs are critical to team performance as they set the foundation for a team’s accomplishments. They determine team members’ roles, goals, interactions, and the resources available for achieving tasks. These inputs influence the team’s ability to collaborate effectively and meet its objectives. Inputs are the foundational elements that the team starts with, such as individual team members’ skills, resources, and the organisational context.
Examples of inputs include:
Team Skills and Knowledge: Diverse expertise among members helps the team make informed decisions.
Team Composition: Having the right mix of skills, personalities, and roles within the team.
Organisational Support and Resources: Access to necessary tools, training, and materials to support the team’s work.
What are processes?
The effectiveness of a team relies on how well members integrate their activities to achieve the team’s objectives. Team processes encompass cognitive, behavioural, and emotional activities that enable team members to work cohesively and focus on common goals. Processes are the interactions and activities within the team that help it achieve its goals. Effective processes facilitate teamwork and lead to successful outcomes.
Key processes include:
Task Coordination and Role Clarity: Ensuring that each member understands their responsibilities and how their work integrates with others.
Communication and Information Sharing: Open channels for exchanging information enhance decision-making and problem-solving.
Conflict Management: Addressing and resolving conflicts constructively to maintain team cohesion.
Creativity and Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and creative problem-solving to adapt to challenges.
What are outputs?
If team inputs and processes are well-managed, team outputs should align with the desired goals, as described in the Input-Process-Output (IPO) model. Team outputs are the results or outcomes that reflect the team’s effectiveness and cohesiveness. Outputs represent the team’s work outcomes, influenced by the inputs and processes. They reflect the team’s effectiveness in meeting its objectives.
Dimensions of outputs include:
Task Performance: The extent to which the team meets its goals and delivers quality results.
Member Satisfaction and Well-being: The level of satisfaction and morale among team members.
Team Cohesion and Attachment: The team’s degree of unity and commitment can impact future collaborations.
