Understanding Team Design Characteristics
You have previously learned about interdependent teams, but this resource explores those ideas further. The text also examines self-managed teams and pooled interdependence. You will learn about team roles and how they are based on the five primary task roles and the five primary social roles. Additionally, some roles connect the team to the greater organization, which are boundary-spanning roles.
Boundary-Spanning Roles
The final two goals are related to activities outside the team that help to connect the team to the larger organization. Teams that engage in a greater level of boundary-spanning behaviors increase their team effectiveness. The consul role includes gathering information from the larger organization and informing those within the organization about team activities, goals, and successes. Often the consul role is filled by team managers or leaders. The coordinator role includes interfacing with others within the organization so that the team's efforts are in line with other individuals and teams within the organization.