Describe the punctuated equilibrium approach to group development.

Answer!!!!!!!!!!

Punctuated equilibrium suggests that organizations enjoy long periods of stability, or

equilibrium. These periods of equilibrium are interrupted by compact, relatively short periods
of qualitative metamorphic change, or revolution (Gersick, 1991). This model describes the
processes through which such frameworks are formed and revised. It predicts the timing of
progress as well as when and how in their development groups are likely, or unlikely, to be
influenced by their environments. The specific issues and activities that dominate groups work
are left unspecified in the model, since groups historical paths are expected to vary. The model
works in the following way:

Phase One: The first meeting of the team sets the direction of the team. According to the model,
a framework of behavioral patterns and assumptions through which a team approaches its project
in its first meeting, the team stays within that framework throughout the first half of the life of
the team. Teams show a little progress during this phase. The reason behind this is that the
members are unable to perceive a use for the information they are generating until they revise the
initial framework. The first phase of group activity is one of the inertia.

Punctuated Equilibrium Model

Transition Point: A transition takes place at the end of the first phase, which occurs exactly
when the team has used up half its allotted time. The transition initiates major changes. After this
time, the teams often experience a shift in their work approach. This approach enables the team
members to learn what they have done and make changes to their current work approach. This
point is a powerful opportunity to alter the course of the life of the team. This transition should
be used wisely, because once this point is over it is impossible to make changes to the team
again.
Phase Two: This phase is the second phase of inertia in the team. In this phase, the team makes
the changes as planned in the transition stage. The team makes the final effort to achieve its goals
and experiences the positive and negative consequences of past choices.
My team did not go through these stages in any of the project we have to complete. This model
only works for those teams who work on long term goals such as professional teams (teams in
the organizations).