TEAMS OR GROUPS…
WHATS THE DIFFERENCE?
This may seem like an easy answer, but upon closer inspection I realised it is not so simple. Research has shown various definitions of the term: Group(s) and Team(s). From my experience I came up with the following definitions and would like to explain it in more detail.
Martin (1998) explained that a group is a number of people together with a common goal. Reese (1991) argues that a group is a collection of people.
Cook & Hunsaker (2000) provides a definition of a group as two or more people who perceive themselves as a distinct entity, regularly interact and influence one another over a period of time, share common values, and strive for common objectives. A formal group is intentionally established by a manager to accomplish specific organizational objectives; and an informal group emerges through the efforts of individuals to satisfy personal needs not met by the formal organization.
When I refer to the term group, it should be understood as a group of people gathered together for a certain period of time, with a limited or unclear understanding of the goal or the end result of their time being together.
The term group(s) can be used in so many ways. Although there is not an exact clear-cut definition; it comes down to people grouped together, where the individual is aware of other people and the surroundings.
When one works with teams one becomes aware of the unambiguous difference between group(s) and team(s).
Cook & Hunsaker’s (2000) definition of a team is; “A relatively permanent work group whose members share common goals, are interdependent and are accountable as a functioning unit to the organization as a whole.
Heunis (1997) explain that, when a group of people function effectively together with a certain amount of synergy towards a goal they can be called a team. The positive effect of a group of people working towards a common goal can be seen as an effective team.
The concept “team” suggests that the individual cannot function on his/her own. People want to belong, for example; being a valued member of a team. A team becomes more effective when members understand their unique contribution to effective goal-realization. Further, if team members are well informed and feel appreciated, productivity will increase and the goal will become a common goal.
There are certain values like; trust, respect, integrity and a certain way of communicating which must be present in a group of people before they can function as an effective and productive team. A well designed team building programme will turn groups into effective teams.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cook, C. J. & Hunsaker, P.L. 2000. Management and Organizational Behaviour, 3rd Ed. McGraw Hill
Martin, J. 1998. Organizational Behaviour. London. International Thompson
Rees, F. 1991. How to Lead Work Teams: Facilitation Skills. San Diego. Pheiffer |Co
TBI EXPLORING NEW VENTURES
The TBI-team recently experienced AEL (Adventure-related Experiential Learning) in a new exciting way. Diamond X Ranch a school of horsemanship close to Rayton invited the team to experience the relationship between horse and rider in a total new way. A whole afternoon was spent on groundwork, rope work, lock-on and building a relationship with the horse. When it comes to riding a horse the trust between rider and horse is of utmost importance. Going through this experience gives horse riding a completely new meaning. Time ran out but the next step would be to ride the horse. As a team the next challenge is to manoeuvre cows into a designated area. The philosophy of challenge by choice integrated well with the TBI philosophy. For individuals to afraid to ride there is enough to do to stay part of the team.
TBI is exploring the idea to integrate this process as part of a phase 4 or 5 with the mature self-facilitating teams. The team identified some areas of relevance, e.g. trust, communication, support, respect, teamwork, leadership, to name just a few.
Don’t be surprised if the TBI facilitator invites you to Diamond X Ranch for the next phase.
After a local art theft, six suspects were being interviewed. Below is a summary of their statements. Police know that exactly four of them told one lie each and all of the other statements are true. From this information can you tell who committed the crime?
Alan said: It wasn't Brian It wasn't Dave It wasn't Eddie
Brian said: It wasn't Alan It wasn't Charlie It wasn't Eddie
Charlie said: It wasn't Brian It wasn't Freddie It wasn't Eddie
Dave said: It wasn't Alan It wasn't Freddie It wasn't Charlie
Eddie said: It wasn't Charlie It wasn't Dave It wasn't Freddie
Freddie said: It wasn't Charlie It wasn't Dave It wasn't Alan
