Stages of Team Formation and Their Implications to the Project, Essay Example

Forming

This is the first stage of team building and is usually short. A person’s behavior is motivated by the requirement to be acknowledged by other team members. People avoid conflict and focus on serious issues. Team members meet and find out about challenges and opportunities. They also agree on targets and begin to perform tasks. The team gets to know each other, make friends and exchange vital information.

Storming

This is the stage where various ideas are in competition for consideration. Members confront each other’s perspectives and ideas. Most teams remain in this stage because of the immaturity of some members. The stage is important for the growth of the team. Supervisors are more directive in behavior and decision-making.

Norming

The team at this stage has a goal. Some give up on their own ideas and follow what other say. All members are ambitious and work towards achieving success of the projects. Hierarchy is formed and recognized by members.

Performing

High performing teams reach this stage. The team is motivated and knowledgeable, competent and autonomous. The supervisor is participative at this stage. Hard work leads to progress towards the vision of their goal.

Primary responsibilities of a project manager and skill sets a PM has to have to be successful

A project manager ensures that the team completes the project. He/she develops a project plan and ensures that the team performs the tasks. He/she secures the approval and acceptance of project deliverables by sponsors or stakeholders. He/she communicates on such issues as risk management, status reports and resolution of issues. A project manager ensures that the project is delivered within the scope, on time and in budget.

A project manager should have the following skill set

Communication and procedural skills – they should be able to get and convey information to and from members. This is despite the different views of each member.

Ability to manage a diverse resource pool – should be able to work with different people and departments even when the disciplines and backgrounds are nor similar.

Organizational and leadership experience – should be able to lead others and organize work.

The project manager should be dependable, able to delegate and monitor work.