Unit 2 - Lesson #8 (Teamwork Part 2)

Question 1

How do teams make decisions?

Answer 1

Assets of team decision making:

• Greater amounts of information, knowledge, and expertise
• Expands number of action alternatives considered
• Increases understanding and acceptance
• Increases commitment to follow through

Question 2

Disavantages of team decision making:

Answer 2

• Social pressure to conform.
• Individual or minority group domination.
• Time requirements.

Question 3

Creativity in team decision making — guidelines for brainstorming:

Answer 3

• All criticism is ruled out
• Freewheeling is welcomed
• Quantity is important
• Building on one another’s ideas is encouraged

Question 4

Steps in a cyclical team-building process:

Answer 4

Step 1 — problem awareness.
Step 2 — data gathering.
Step 3 — data analysis and diagnosis.
Step 4 — action planning.
Step 5 — action implementation.
Step 6 — evaluation.

Question 5

Characteristics of high-performing teams:

Answer 5

• A clear and elevating goal.
• A task-driven, results-oriented structure.
• Competent and committed members who work hard.
• A collaborative climate.
• High standards of excellence.
• External support and recognition.
• Strong and principled leadership.

Question 6

Effective team leaders act to:

Answer 6

• Establish clear vision.
• Create change.
• Unleash talent.

Question 7

What are the roles of managers - team leaders

Answer 7

When the manager acts as the team leader, they are essentially keeping the typical role of manager. They oversee the team and continue to provide clear direction, while acting as supervisor and appointed head of the team

Question 8

Role of managers - network facilitator

Answer 8

In this role, the manager acts more as a collaborative leader, but not actively supervising directly, all the time. The manager is there, will check in, and provide direction and assistance when required.

Question 9

Role of a manager - team member:

Answer 9

When a manager takes the role of a team member, he or she becomes an active contributor to the team. The manager is not acting as a supervisor, but as a same level contributor as any other member on the team.

Question 10

Role of a manager - external coach:

Answer 10

A manager acting as an external coach for a team is essentially taking a true hands-off role. The manager is there and can be accessed when help or assistance is required, but really doesn’t take an active role in the team.