Saturday, August 1, 2020

Tuckman's Stages of Team Formation

In 1965, Bruce Tuckman came up with a model representing the different phases groups need to go through to grow as a team. The model initially consisted of four distinct stages: forming, storming, norming and performing. Later, a fifth stage was added, called ‘adjourning’.




Forming

The team is formed and everyone shows their best behavior. There is a positive and polite atmosphere. Strong guidance is needed by the facilitator as group tasks are not clearly defined yet.

Storming
Emerging boundaries become contested and conflicts occur. Also frustration with the lack of progress is common. Guidance is needed by the facilitator.

Norming
Team members start to resolve their differences, appreciate colleagues' strengths, and respect the leader’s authority. Behavior from the storming and norming phases can overlap for some time when new tasks come up.

Performing
Hard work goes hand in hand with satisfaction about the team’s progress. Team confidence makes team roles more fluid and more tasks can be delegated by the facilitator. Problems are prevented or solved as they pop up.

Adjourning
When all tasks are completed, it’s important to celebrate the team’s positive achievements. Letting go of the group structure after long periods of intensive team work can also generate uncertainty for individual team members.


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