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How teams form & perform - Tuckman's team development model

Basic idea

Tuckman (1965) proposed that teams pass through 4 (later 5) stages on their way to effectiveness. The point is that "storming" is normal, not a sign of failure β€” and "adjourning" deserves attention too.

Key facts

  • Stages: Forming β†’ Storming β†’ Norming β†’ Performing β†’ Adjourning (added later).

  • Positive signs: clear comms, brainstorming, consensus, shared problem-solving, timely hand-offs.

  • Negative signs: silos, "thrown over the wall" work, blame culture, frequent absence.

  • First proposed by Bruce Tuckman in 1965

  • 4 stages - Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing --> Adjourning (added later)

Is the team effective or not

Positive signs

  • Clear comms

  • Regular brainstorming

  • Concensus among team members

  • Problem solving done by the group

  • Commitment to the project outcomes and the other team members

  • Regular team meatings are effective and inclusive

  • Timely hand off from team members to others or early advise if this wont happen

  • Positive supporting relationships

Negative signs

  • Lack of comms

  • No clear roles or responsibilities

  • Work is thrown over a wall

  • Team members work alone

  • Blame others when things go wrong, no one accepts responsibility

  • Lack of support for others

  • Frequently absent impacting time and creating additional work for others

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