Chapter 9Understanding Work TeamsLearning Outcomes Explain the growing popularity of work teams in organizations. Describe the five stages of team development. Identify four common types of work teams. List the characteristics of high-performing work teams. Identify team member roles.Open CaseIn the process of developing a new series of 777, Boeing Corporation utilized a new form in the work place- the cross-functional teams, which was composed by a group of members including designer, manufacturer, repairer, customer service engineer, accountant, and even customers. Each team was responsible for the whole process from the very beginning to the end. Compared to previous way of working, when employees belonged to specific departments, in charge of one stage of the whole process, this work teams contributed to huge reduction of cost, time efficiency, and customer satisfaction.The Popularity Of Teams Teams typically outperform individuals when tasks require multiple skills, judgment, and experience. Teams are a better way to utilize individual employee talents. The flexibility and responsiveness of teams is essential in a changing environment. Empowered teams increase job satisfaction and morale, enhance employee involvement, and promote workforce diversity.Stages of Team DevelopmentTypes of Work TeamsCharacteristics of High-performing Work TeamsTeam Member RolesSource: Based on C. Margerison and D. McCann, Team Management: Practical New Approaches (London: Mercury Books, 1990).