In a group, members are told what to do rather than being asked what the best approach would be.  Suggestions and creativity are not encouraged. 

In a team, members contribute to the organisation's success by applying their unique talents, knowledge and entrepreneurial creativity to team objectives.

Hot Intrapreneurial Teams

Hot Teams at IDEO

In a group, members distrust the motives of colleagues because they do not understand the role of other members. Expressions of opinion or disagreement are considered divisive or non-supportive. 

In a team, members work in a climate of trust and are encouraged to openly express ideas, opinions, disagreements and feelings. Questions are welcomed.

Team

Team Building

⑤ Common Understanding

In a group, members receive good training but are limited in applying it to the job by the manager or other group members. 

In a team, members are encouraged to continually develop skills and apply what they learn on the job.  They perceive they have the support of the team.

In a group, members find themselves in conflict situations they do not know how to resolve.  Their supervisor/leader may put off intervention until serious damage is done, i.e. a crisis situation. 

In a team, members realise conflict is a normal aspect of human interaction but they view such situations as an opportunity for better understanding of perceptions, generation of new ideas and creative problem solving. They work to resolve conflict quickly and constructively.

In a group, members may or may not participate in decisions affecting the group.  Conformity often appears more important than positive results.  Win/lose situations are common.

In a team, members participate in decisions affecting the team but understand their leader must make a final ruling whenever the team cannot decide, or an emergency exists.  Positive win/win results are the goal at all times.

In a group, members tend to work in an unstructured environment with undetermined standards of performance.  Leaders do not walk the talk and tend to lead from behind a desk. 

In a team, members work in a structured environment, they know what boundaries exist and who has final authority.  The leader sets agreed high standards of performance and empowers team members. S/he is respected via active, willing participation.

In a group, members are uncommitted towards excellence and personal pride.  Performance levels tend to be mediocre.  Staff turnover is high because talented individuals quickly recognise that

(a) personal expectations are not being fulfilled

In a team, only those committed to excellence are hired.  Prospective team members are queuing at the door to be recruited on the basis of their high levels of hard and soft skill sets.  Everyone works together in a harmonious environment.