GUIDELINES FOR EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF WORK TEAMS

• The task is one that is appropriate for a work team.
• The team is recognized as such by its own members and others in the organization.
• The team has clear authority over the task (e.g., the team must not be “second-guessed” by management).
• The structure of the team, including the task, the team members, and the team norms need to promote teamwork.
• The organization must support the team through policies and systems specifically designed to support the work teams’ needs.
• Expert coaching and feedback are provided to the teams when it is needed and when the team members are ready to receive it.