Stage 1: Forming

Members of the team cautiously explore the boundaries of acceptable group behavior. This is a transition from individual to team member behavior. This stage also might involve the testing of the moderator.

Stage 2: Storming

Team members begin to realize the task is different and/or more difficult than they imagined. They become testy, blameful, or overzealous. Team members try to rely solely on their personal experience, resisting any need for collaborating with other team members.

Stage 3: Norming

Members reconcile competing loyalties and responsibilities. They accept the team, the team ground rules (or norms), and their roles within the team.

Stage 4: Performing

The team settles down and performs as a team. Team members discover and accept each other's strengths and weaknesses. Also, they know their role within the team.