Worst Team

Group Research Paper HMRD 665

Ryan Steinberg

Proofer:

University of Maryland University College

March 13, 2011

Abstract

The days where teams or groups sit around a conference table to work on a common goal have almost reached extinction. Virtual teams and the struggling economy have drastically changed the way teams and groups are viewed. “Teams that consist of team members working in different regions, countries and continents, face challenges in coordinating their communication and finding a cohesive and encouraging atmosphere within the team” (Anu, 2006). As many as 8.4 million employees are members of at least one virtual team in the United States (Doolen & Bonnono, 2009). Virtual and face-to-face teams function differently, and not all groups are made equal. Which teams are better, virtual or face-to-face teams?

What is a Virtual Team?

Virtual teams are groups or organizations focused on completing tasks as a unit; they are forced to find different and proficient ways to communicate because of the distance in physical geography that separates the group. The forms of communication used to complete these goals are videoconferences, teleconferencing, internet, email, and webinars. They are used to collaborate on executive decisions. Virtual teams are increasing daily in society because of the cost efficiency that can be a positive resource to corporate strategies. The last of the virtual teams are action teams. Action teams offer immediate response to an emergency situation.

What is a Face-to-Face Team?

Face-to-face teams are the traditional. This is the way people have gone about communicating in group settings throughout time, until the implantation of technology, which has allowed for groups to collaborate on projects from far distances. The face-to-face team is hard to replace because the unique characteristics that come with meeting face-to-face include body language and instant communication. Face-to-face meetings are becoming less and less frequent, but will always be an important piece of the group dynamic (Fiol & O'Connor, 2005).

What makes a good team?

Successful teams have the ability to maximize their efforts to complete the task in the most efficient and productive way possible. According to Levi, “A successful team completes its task, maintains good social relations, and promotes its members personal and professional development” (2007, p. 19). Constructive styles are when team members are trying to satisfy their