Team Development and Team Management

This chapter describes the differences between groups and teams because many assume these are one in the same subjects. It examines why the subject of teams represents an important management topic and how organizations use teams to improve an organization’s performance. The chapter identifies and describes the common skills needed to create teams as well as the management skills needed to successfully manage a team. It also identifies and describes strategies useful in improving a team’s performance. The chapter also describes a process for teaching individuals how to successfully develop and manage teams; learn how to conduct team meeting; team leadership; and strategies for dealing with team-related problems including conflict management strategies. It introduces the reader to a model for teaching these subjects that, if successful, achieves the goal of improving team performance. The chapter identifies and describes criteria that leadership can consider when contemplating in creating a team, whether a long-lasting team or a temporary team.