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The Key Elements of a True Team

Decades of scientific research have identified a set of elements common to highly successful business teams:

  • Mission—A statement of purpose that excites interest while supporting the company's mission.
  • Goals—Three to five measurable goals that quantify progress toward the mission within a specific time frame.
  • Code of Conduct—Rules created by the team to reduce workplace behaviors that hurt team performance and job satisfaction.
  • Team Procedures—Procedures for handling the team's administrative tasks.
  • Process Documentation—Written descriptions and/or diagrams of how the team performs its daily tasks, for use in process improvement.
  • Role Definitions—Clear descriptions of each member's roles in both everyday work and team procedures.
  • Project Plan—A formal project plan for meeting the team's goals.
  • Techniques—Skills in group communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and decision-making.
  • Incentives—Rewards for achieving team goals (not necessarily money).
  • Visibility—A method to ensure upper managers become aware of the team's accomplishments.