Different types of companies have logically provoked the evolution of different types of teams. Some of the teams are permanent and others are temporary. Some are part of the corporate hierarchy, others are adjunct.
Groups and teams
Business companies include both groups and teams.
- Groups are usually formed around common interests or purposes with the goal of sharing information, but there is no collective accountability. It can be a social club or a workgroup with volunteer efforts.
- Teams’ focus is collective performance, where the members have both individual and mutual accountability. Therefore, companies create teams to bring together groups of people with complementary skills and interests to work toward a common goal.
Of course, each type comes with its set of strengths and weaknesses. The type of team you need depends on your purposes, location, and organizational structure.
The early concept of teams rose to popularity in the 1970s. However, the modern teamwork is fully integrated into the activities and organizational culture
Advantages of Teams
The main advantage is that a team brings together different people with diverse skills and allows them to make something that nobody could do alone.
Communication level is higher on teams. Effective teams can discover new approaches and improve product and service quality.
One more team’s advantage is the efficiency in product development within the traditional hierarchy. Team members are able to analyze and identify dependent tasks, sometimes applying great improvements.