When tasked to build the same Lego figure , two-person teams took 36 minutes while four-person teams took 52 minutes to finish — over 44 % longer . Yet the larger teams were almost twice as overoptimistic about how long they ’ d take .*
ÎÎHave the team leads set ongoing checkpoints for evaluating progress and re-evaluating structure .
ÎÎEnsure that the overarching goals of the project are interwoven into your tactical process ’ s tracking mechanisms so that no one loses sight of them .
ÎÎKeep all project management software updated in real time and accessible to a range of stakeholders .
SMALL TEAMS
The Secret to Your Success ?
According to fast-growth companies , team size directly influences productivity rates and engagement levels . Yet , it ’ s how those teams are developed and managed that determines their success . Smaller teams — whether cross-functional or focused on one function — can inspire creative thinking and efficient decisions , especially if they ’ re carefully structured .
Here are some tips for managing team size and productivity that can help boost the quality and relevancy of a small team ’ s outcomes :
Itemize roles and responsibilities upfront . Yet , also be sure to update this list as the project develops and as unexpected needs for different skills , knowledge , and perspectives arise . If new members need to be added , consider soliciting input on the skills needed to supplement the existing team . Teams can grow sloppily and unnecessarily in size if individuals are simply added as a courtesy or on a need-to-know basis . And new team members who participate primarily by listening are less likely to stimulate the conversation around a problem or opportunity .
Keep meeting agendas very specific . This way , team members can more easily stay focused in smaller , quicker and more direct meetings that generate forward momentum and fuel ongoing creativity .
Take advantage of the intimacy that small groups afford . By getting to know and understanding team members , their individual goals and functional nuances , the creativity and impact of the team is enhanced .
Make meeting and work flow constant but not overwhelming . Carefully pace how each part of a project is delivered in order to keep all team members engaged without burnout .
Enhance Productivity Through Team Involvement in Process In this age of rapid market shifts , tight timelines and never-ending deadlines , perhaps nothing is more vital to success than keeping your project on track . How to do that ? Here are some helpful thought-starters :
ÎÎHold scheduled review sessions or reality checks to ensure that projects are moving according to goals and schedule — protecting against a decentralized , even disorganized , flow where independent ideas prevail over accountable group decisions .
ÎÎIf roles or responsibilities start to become unclear when a project shifts in a new direction , meet as a team to re-establish them in light of the updated vision .
ÎÎEnable team members to prepare and to offer input and feedback , whether that ’ s from practical or theoretical points of view .
ÎÎEmbrace and endorse attitudes of humility , willingness to learn , and collaboration .
ÎÎPersonally check in with team members as projects unfold to see how they feel about their role and the potential project outcomes . Ask if they feel that the team chemistry is positive and if not , how they might want to change it .
ÎÎIncentivize team members with rewards that speak to their individual character and personal interests .
ÎÎMake roles and responsibilities clear when a team project shifts in a completely new direction .
* BUSINESS INSIDER “ THE SCIENCE BEHIND WHY JEFF BEZOS ’ 2-PIZZA RULE WORKS ” 2014
6 | SNB . COM // CONNECT CULTURE WINTER 2016