A group in the workplace usually involves three or more people who identify themselves as being distinctive, but actually work independently of each other to achieve their goals. For example, in the department of Sports, there are several coaches, one coach may focus on a netball, one coach may focus on football and another coach may assist those individual coaches. Groups may tend to have a permanent mind set on their goals and responsibilities. Whereas, a team would comprise of three or more people who may come from different departments within an organization, they work together as a team to achieve their goals or whatever project they are focusing on. For instance, when the DOS assist with the Deputy Governor's 5 K run, they pull staff from anywhere in our department to assist with the run. . With a team, individuals recognize the expertise and talents of others needed to achieve the team's goal. Additionally, teams are often formed for temporary assignments with one specific goal or focus in mind.

When think about how to establish a productive team a few things pop up in our mind. Everyone brings unique talents and strengths to the table and work gets done effectively and everyone contributes to the team's goal, but it is more than that. Whether you have been tasked with setting up a new team, or you are taking over an existing one, begin by defining the goal of your team.

1. What is its purpose?

2.What are your expectations?

3. How will your team contribute to goals?

Explain using the team development stages.