Team characteristics




Teams are unique and they are different than groups.
Examples of team characteristics are describe below.
Team members realize they need to work independent from each other. They understand what is best for the team is best for the team.
Win, Win.
Teams do not battle over turf or silos. Individuals work for the greater good of the team.
Team members have ownership for their work and contributions to the team. The team is committed toward a common goal. Team members use their unique skills, knowledge, and abilities to move the team toward the common goal.
Teams have a culture of trust. Individuals can question, debate, challenges, and disagree with others. Teams embrace growth to change and an improve.
Team characteristics encourage open and honest communication to solve problems.


Groups are assembled by administrative purpose and lack a common goal.
Individuals work separate and overlap with task. Groups members work on their one and they lack passion in group work.Group members are told what to do and they do not contribute to goal or task. Open communication is not encourage in groups.
Group members do not trust each other.
Dr. Deming started the team building concept with quality circles and Total Quality Management. Team characteristics embrace open communication, trust, and cooperation. Groups lack teamwork and passion for a common goal.



Dr. Deming started the team building concept with quality circles and Total Quality Management. Team characteristics embrace open communication, trust, and cooperation. Groups lack teamwork and passion for the common goal.
Group members are cautious and do not trust each other. Teams are more common in the Japanese’s culture. The Japanese are more focused for the greater good. Americans tend to have a pioneer spirit and they have a rugged individual attitude.
Leadership has an influence on Team characteristics. Teams are focused on the common goal. During the quality revolution of the 1970 and 1980, companies embrace the team building concept. Honda in Ohio, USA had been a leader in team building and they have had an impact of team building.



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