Groups vs. Teams

This presentation provides a summary of the characteristics that differentiate a group from a team. Use this presentation to highlight the key points that we've discussed regarding groups and teams.

Groups

  • Groups are a normal part of life.
  • Every group is different:
    • Different purposes
    • Different people
    • Different relationships

Characteristics of Groups

  • 1) Size
  • 2) Interdependence of Members
  • 3) Group Identity
  • 4) Group Goals
  • 5) Group Structure

Size

  • 3-13 members
    • 5 is considered optimal.
    • Some studies say as many as 20 can be functional.
  • Too large a group can lead to social loafing.


Interdependence of Members

  • Cooperation
  • Dependence
  • Mutual Influence
  • Subordination to Goal

Group Identity

  • Groups only exist when members are able to think of themselves as a group.
  • Shared Values
  • Shared Goals

Group Goals

  • Goals=the reason the group exists.
  • The group goal is not the same as individual goals.

Group Structure

  • Rules, Norms, and Roles
  • Informal Structure
  • Sometimes roles are defined formally.

Groups Vs. Teams

  • A team is a group of individuals who have come together to achieve a specific, common goal.
    • All teams are small groups, but not all small groups operate as teams.**
  • The definition of a small group that I gave you earlier clearly fits the definition of teams: Teams are typically small groups of people with a common purpose and a sense of belonging, who exert influence over one another.
Groups Teams
Goals Goals may be discussed in general terms.
 Clear, elevating goals drive all aspects of team accomplishment.
Roles and Responsibilities
 Roles and responsibilities may be discussed but are not always explicitly defined or developed.
 Roles and responsibilities are clearly developed and discussed.
Rules Rules are not formally developed and evolve according the group's needs
Rules and operating procedures are clearly discussed and developed to help team work together.
Methods Group members interact, and work is usually divided.
Team members collaborate and coordinate efforts.  Team members work together interdependently.


Source: Stephen Gill, https://s3.amazonaws.com/saylordotorg-resources/wwwresources/site/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/BUS209-3.2.1-Groups-vs.-Teams-FINAL.ppt
Creative Commons License This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

Last modified: Saturday, December 4, 2021, 3:13 PM