Groups vs.

Teams
 Groups

Groups are a normal part of life.

Every group is different:

-Different purposes
-Different people
-Different relationships
 Characteristics of Groups
1) Size

2) Interdependence of Members

3) Group Identity

4) Group Goals

5) Group Structure
 Size

3-13 members
*5 is considered optimal.
*Some studies say as many as 20 can be functional.

Too large a group can lead to social

loafing.
 Interdependence of Members

Cooperation

Dependence

Mutual Influence

Subordination to Goal
 Group Identity

Groups only exist when members are able

to think of themselves as a group.

Shared Values

Shared Goals
 Group Goals

Goals=the reason the group exists.

The group goal is not the same as

individual goals.
 Group Structure

Rules, Norms, and Roles

Informal Structure

Sometimes roles are defined formally.

 Groups Vs. Teams
 A team is a group of individuals who have come
together to achieve a specific, common goal.

 All teams are small groups, but not all small groups
operate as teams.**

 The definition of a small group that I gave you

earlier clearly fits the definition of teams: Teams
are typically small groups of people with a
common purpose and a sense of belonging, who
exert influence over one another.
 Groups Vs. Teams
Groups
Goals may be discussed in
Goals general terms.
Roles and responsibilities
Roles and may be discussed but are
Responsibilities not always explicitly defined
or developed .
Rules are not formally
Rules developed and evolve
according the group’s needs
Group members interact,
Methods and work is usually divided.
Teams
Clear, elevating goals drive
all aspects of team
accomplishment.
Roles and responsibilities
are clearly developed and
discussed.
Rules and operating
procedures are clearly
discussed and developed to
help team work together.
Team members collaborate
and coordinate efforts. Team
members work together
interdependently.