Project Teams Function by Group Processes

In general, people become a part of groups for diverse reasons such as the satisfaction of needs, sheer closeness of social interaction, attraction between individuals, identification with group goals and economic benefits that arise from group participation (Gibson, Ivancevich, & Donnelly, 1994). People of like interests, needs and abilities are naturally drawn into one another's company. Teams function much the same way.

Individuals may seek to form groups for specific reason. A group that must confront a common foe or enemy may band together for security reasons. Most individuals seek interaction with others who have similar interests, and the group setting provides the necessary context. Some individuals are lacking adequate life stimuli to achieve the level of esteem that they feel that they need--once again, the group provides a context to make this possible. Teams can supply these group by-products as well.

Regardless of the needs that are fulfilled by group participation, group participation may occur as a natural happenstance. The numerous opportunities to interact with individuals who are close to one another, such as in teams, are a fact in many job settings. Furthermore, group members who perceive events in a like fashion or who have the same attitudes are also drawn to one another.

A group that forms because of some common goal or vision can serve as a magnet for individuals who identify or who are working toward the same goal. The formation of groups or teams can be both a catalyst for human interaction and a result of human interaction.

Reference

Gibson, J.L., Ivancevich, J.M., & Donnelly, J.H., Jr. (1994). Organizations: Behavior, structure, processes (8th ed.). Boston, MA: Irwin.