How to Have Success in a Self-Directed Work Team
A large portion of a company's success relates back to good direction from management. However, logistically, managers cannot be in all places at once for a company. This means that companies often have to establish teams to complete projects. These teams often are self-directed, meaning that they have no formal manager but are expected to complete tasks as a whole. Having success in a self-directed team requires understanding the strengths and weaknesses of all team members and having clear objectives toward which the team may strive.
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Instructions
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Clarify or review the overall objectives of the company -- that is, indicate the purpose the team is to serve within the business.
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Identify the skills and experiences of each team member that could be valuable given the objectives for the group.
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List tasks the team must complete, as well as the resources and time frame available for finalization of work.
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Match the team members with tasks the team must finished according to their skills and experience. Have the team members review each other and select one person -- more if the team is large -- who can act as a go-to person and assume some organizational and managerial responsibilities. This person should be able to provide positive support and keep team members from becoming apathetic or confrontational.
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Set up regular meetings or other methods by which the team members may check each other's progress and offer information about changes or forthcoming events. Although the team initially should have a person who serves a managerial role, successful teams keep all members accountable and share information openly.
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Provide training for team members as appropriate given the team's objectives and team members' skill sets and experience.
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Have the "manager" of the group gradually delegate operational tasks to different group members so that the need for a manager disintegrates as the team gains confidence and molds together.
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Suggest new paths the team may take and set some new goals that may be riskier than previous work. Self-directed teams should have some challenges to remain alert, innovative and realize their full potential. Be clear about the risks when presenting opportunities to the group, but do so in a positive way.
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References
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