Topic 11: Stages of team development

Question 1

Forming?

Answer 1

• This is the first stage of team development in which team members are
  introduced to one another.
• Team members observe one another’s behaviour and are polite to each other.
• Team members shows mutual respect, and they feel comfortable

Question 2

Storming?

Answer 2

• Conflict occurs among team member after the forming stage is concluded.
• Team members with different ideas exchange these ideas, which leads to conflict.
• There may be power struggles for the position of team leader.

Question 3

Norming?

Answer 3

• The conflict during the storming stage must be resolved as soon as possible..
• During this stage, team members compromise their ideas and accept that they need to work in harmony with one another.
• Team members come to an agreement and reach consensus.

Question 4

Performing?

Answer 4

• Team members are aware of strategies and aims of the team.
• The leader trusts the team and avoids interfering in the operations of the team.
• Leaders delegate and oversee the processes and procedures

Question 5

Adjourning?

Answer 5

• The focus is on the completion of the task
• Some team members adjust poorly to the team breaking up because they will find it difficult to work on their own again.
• All tasks must be completed before the team fi nally breaks up and individual members go their separate ways

Question 6

The importance of team dynamic theories?

Answer 6

• Team dynamic theories are used to explain the effectiveness of teamwork
• Tasks are allocated to members according to their roles within the team.
• Individuals can perform optimally given the tasks according to skills

Question 7

Causes of conflict in the workplace?

Answer 7

• Unrealistic deadlines may increase the stress levels of certain employees.
• Unfair workloads may cause some employees to feel marginalised.
• Lack of clear communication may cause uncertainty amongst employees.