Bruce Tuckman, a psychology professor, identified four stages of development that every team experiences.  They are forming, storming, norming and performing.  Tuckman said that all these phases are necessary and inevitable in order for the team to grow, face up to challenges, tackle problems, find solutions, plan work, and deliver results.  The ‘team growth model’ also suggests that unless the issues of processes and feelings have been satisfactorily addressed, it is unlikely that a team will ever be fully productive.

Watch the video for background information about Tuckman’s Team Development Model, feel free to request the templates laura@thehiddenedge.co.uk. I am happy to share.

1. Identify the phase or stage your team is at according to Tuckman.

2.  Apply Homan’s three elements to group development to help you drill down further still.

3.  Schedule regular reviews of where your team is, and adjust your behaviour and leadership approach appropriately.

4. Click here for the video about Hersey & Blandford’s Situational Leadership

Please do share your experiences with these models in the comments below.  I am building a portfolio of small business case studies and would love to include examples of what has worked well for you.

PS – If you need further help then give me a call on 07962 626604 to arrange a Skype session with me.

PPS – This exercise forms part of a series of workshops on Terrific Teams

Published by TheHiddenEdge

I love words - they can say so much and say so little depending on how you use them. Come and explore them with me in this learning journal. View all posts by TheHiddenEdge