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STAGES OF TEAM GROWTH

FOUR STAGES ALL TEAM ENCOUNTER

As teams are formed and begin to develop they all go through the same stages. Knowing in advance about these stages can help get through them quicker and with less conflict.

Stage 1. Orientation.

In this stage, the team is apprehensive about what is about to happen, but at the same time, a little excited.

This stage is short-lived.

Stage 2. Dissatisfaction.

The team quickly becomes dissatisfied as conflicts occur. If it is an inexperienced team, serious doubts may arise about the whole process. Many members have serious doubts about the process and may see traditional management techniques as not all that bad after all.

This is a critical stage and takes much perseverance to get past. The length of time to pass thorough this stage depends on many factors: experience level of the team in team building; experience level of the coach; initial problem(s) to solve; ability of the individual team members to manage conflict; support level from the coach and management; and many other factors.

Stage 3. resolution.

Conflict behind them, this is where the team sees the light ahead and begins to develop its teamwork skills. Team members are learning to interact and resolve conflict. Most members are competent in problem solving techniques and attitude is positive.

This is usually not long-lasting. Most teams move on quickly.

Stage 4. Productivity.

Now they really are a team and are working together to quickly overcome any obstacle. Morale and attitude are very high. Productivity is extremely high.

With proper support and recognition, this stage can and should last for the life of the team.