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.