Work Groups and Action Teams: Distinguishing Among Task-oriented Groups
The Emerald Handbook of Group and Team Communication Research
ISBN: 978-1-80043-501-8, eISBN: 978-1-80043-500-1
Publication date: 5 November 2021
Abstract
This chapter describes the ways in which tasks structure group discussion and performance in organizational settings. Work teams are defined as three or more members of the same organization who work interdependently toward a shared task or goal while supporting that organization's mission. Action teams are a specific type of work group. They are characterized by tactical tasks that require newly formed teams to perform in high-stakes situations. This chapter starts by covering historical trends in organizational culture and climate and team training. The remainder of the chapter focuses on the interrelationships among tasks, communication, and performance. Several tips for managing effective work teams, such as staying on task during meetings and responding to changing team membership, are discussed. This chapter closes by making recommendations for future research.
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Acknowledgements
Acknowledgments
I would like to acknowledge the National Institute of Health's National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) for funding my program of research and providing the protected time to work on this chapter (K12HL138039). I would also like to thank Drs. Poole and Keyton for their comments and suggestions. This is a much stronger chapter because of your feedback. Last but not least, I want to thank Dr. Beck for allowing me to contribute to this book – it is an honor to be included among such inspiring scholars.
Citation
Ervin, J.N. (2021), "Work Groups and Action Teams: Distinguishing Among Task-oriented Groups", Beck, S.J., Keyton, J. and Poole, M.S. (Ed.) The Emerald Handbook of Group and Team Communication Research, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 429-442. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80043-500-120211027
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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