Groups and Teams: The advantages and disadvantages of both styles

In the blog last week, we examined the key differences between groups and teams. This week we shall explore some of the advantages and disadvantages of functioning successfully in both styles.

Though requiring different skills, behaviour, and attitudes, working successfully with others in either a group or team context can be equally demanding as well as rewarding. What follows is an introductory overview the primary advantages and disadvantages of both styles.

The characteristics and requirements of effective group behaviour

A group is a collection of individuals who often work together over long periods of time. Group members typically work individually on one aspect of assigned tasks. People who work in groups are under the control of some form of line manager who has the authority to tell them what to do.

Moreover, group membership has been a familiar experience for people from initial hunter-gatherer communities, while also enabling the development of early agricultural civilisations. For example, the farming of rice requires cooperation from the entire community with each member playing their individual role. Then, even today, the family group remains at the centre of many societies as exemplified in the case of Mediterranean nations and China. Indeed, nearly all human activities such as working, learning, worshiping, relaxing, and playing arose in the context of group membership.

Finally, the group experience has had a profound impact on the development of cultural values, beliefs, feelings, and behavioural expectations.

The advantages of working in a group

A group takes little time to establish as members have clearly defined individual roles. They also have different functions that can result in contrasting views or perspectives on a project. This can be especially helpful where creative thinking and problem-solving is required such as during the proposed implementation of new products or services.

Group working can also enhance communication skills as members must learn to listen and use accessible language when interacting with people from different backgrounds, specialisms, and perspectives.

Finally, working in a group can promote a sense of self-motivation as individuals remain largely responsible for their role or function in project.

The characteristics and requirements of effective team behaviour

A team is a collection of people who work together to achieve common goals. Moreover, team leaders are often on the same level in the hierarchy as other members. Consequently, they are required to motivate fellow team members by listening, influencing, persuading, and by example. Finally, teams and individual members must largely work on their own initiative, while being able to make decisions to solve problems without constantly being told what to do by senior line managers.

The advantages of working in a team

First, working in a team can enhance the development of numerous interpersonal skills as members learn to cooperate and negotiate with each other to complete tasks. For example, they need to acquire a positive and tolerant outlook to manage disagreement and apply effective conflict resolution strategies.

In addition, team members need to motivate one another for the purpose of completing shared goals, improving team performance, and increasing productivity. Moreover, as team members regularly cooperate, they develop a reliance on mutual support that reduces stress due to feeling less personal pressure. Finally, as team members share priorities and contribute to common goals, it is easier for members to coordinate their efforts to reach effective solutions.

To conclude, in the blog next week we shall evaluate the key stages in the process of team development.

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Question 1

Why might some people feel more comfortable working in a group rather than a team?

Question 2

How might the type of work influence either a preference for either a group or team style?

Question 3

What are the key stages in the process of effective team development?

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We shall explore Question 3 in the next blog.