Teamwork

Teamwork is a crucial aspect of Quality Management. However, individuals are very important, most of the work undertaken in an organization will be undertaken in teams. And, this can be manufacturing teams, management teams or improvement teams.

Team Importance:

The team is important for several reasons,

Task Complexity:

Most tasks in organizations are multiple-facing and complex. And, the likelihood that the knowledge and expertise of one individual will be sufficient to complete the task is finite.

Synergy:

Working together, teams can become much more than the sum of the individuals within them – think about great sports teams. Although there may be outstanding individuals within the team. But, it is those that work best together who maximize their potential and win more often than not.

Communication and Understanding:

Working together in a team allows for individuals to better understand the issues they and others face as part of their working lives. Moreover, the communication will be enhanced and a broader understanding of processes and their problems generated.

Social Interaction:

Humans are social animals, working in isolation is not normal for us; being in teams helps with the sense of belonging which Maslow (1987) identified on his Hierarchy of Needs.

Effective Team Requirement

An effective team must have the following,

• Firstly, a strong team identity and purpose.
• Then, there should be clear goals and strong commitment.
• Then, healthy levels of challenge and conflict.
• Trust and integrity.
• Lastly, Mutual support and participation in team results.

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