Forming Teams

You've got a grasp on the requirements and challenges for this term, right? Now, you might be wondering, "How on earth am I going to tackle all this?" Here's the awesome part - you're not going it alone! You'll be teaming up in groups of four.

Working in a team isn't just about achieving more; it's an adventure in collaboration and coordination. Great teamwork doesn’t just happen – it's crafted. We're here to equip you with the essentials to make that happen, turning your team into a powerhouse of productivity and innovation.

But first, let's sort out some key details: You have the freedom to create your own super teams! Our course Discord channel is your go-to spot to link up with fellow classmates. It's the perfect place to find teammates who share your project vision and goals. Plus, it’s important to sync up your schedules to ensure smooth sailing.

Having trouble finding your crew? No worries, just reach out to your course instructor. We're here to make sure everyone finds their spot in a team where they can shine.

Now, with teams set and ready, let's dive into the really good stuff – making your team click and fire on all cylinders.

The Power of Teamwork and How to do it Well

Why be a star when you can make a constellation?

– Naomi Murakawa

Have you ever considered that there is more to success than just individual achievement? Rather than being a lone star in the sky, why not create something even more beautiful and impactful? By collaborating with others and working towards a common goal, you can create a constellation - a group of shining stars that together form a stunning and memorable image. Not only will you have the satisfaction of knowing that you have played a part in something bigger than yourself, but you will also have the opportunity to learn and grow from those around you.

This is the value of teamwork and collaboration!

In a world where we are constantly bombarded with messages about the importance of individualism and self-reliance, it's easy to forget the value of collaboration. Working in teams can bring about a whole host of benefits that simply cannot be achieved through individual effort. Not only does collaboration foster creativity and learning, but it also allows us to play to our strengths, boost morale and performance, build a sense of camaraderie, and tackle immense challenges.

Therefore, as you go through the Team Software Project course, you will also be learning how to work together better so that you can really leverage the strengths of your team members to create a truly impactful project.

Stages of Team Development

Watch this video for an introduction to the stages of team development.

Summary from the video on why we should work in teams:

  1. To foster creativity and learning
  2. To play to our strengths
  3. To boost morale and performance
  4. To build a sense of camaraderie
  5. To allow us to tackle immense challenges that we could not handle by ourselves

As mentioned in the video, the Tuckman model of team development is a popular framework used to understand the stages that teams go through as they work together towards a common goal. Developed by Bruce Tuckman in 1965, the model consists of five stages: forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning. Each stage is marked by unique characteristics, challenges, and opportunities for growth. By understanding the Tuckman model, teams can better navigate the ups and downs of working together and ultimately achieve greater success.

Tuckman stages of group development Source: Strategic Project Management: Theory and Practice for Human Resource Professionals

Forming

Watch this video for an introduction to the forming stage.

Summary: Forming behaviours

  1. Get acquainted
  2. Feel comfortable
  3. Exchange information
  4. Avoiding conflict
  5. Ensure acceptance
  6. Hide personal feelings
  7. Sizing each other up
  8. Focus is on the individuals

Virtual Teams

Watch this video to learn how to learn about working in virtual teams.

Tips for building effective virtual teams:

  1. Meet at least once per week.
  2. Choose your collaboration tools
    • What are your document-sharing tools?
    • What tools will you use for meeting?
    • What technology will you use to communicate on a regular basis?
    • What tool will you use for project management?
  3. Over-communicate
  4. Hold effective meetings
  5. Foster shared leadership