Case Learning Objectives

$1.$ Conflict. This case challenges students to recognize emotional concerns underlying many aspects of team and

interpersonal conflict.

$2.$ Distance. This case encourages students to think of distance as something more than just physical separation.

Students will recognize that distance can also be understood in terms of stress$-$induced or stress$-$related,

psychological, social, cultural and identity$-$based separation.

$3.$ Team Process Interventions. This case provides students the opportunity to think about the challenges of

reversing counterproductive team processes in the midst of compelling deadlines. In doing so$,$ students must

take into account the ways in which cultural differences and the effects of a merger interact with team dynamics.

Case Discussion Questions

As you read this case, try to develop answers to the following questions or other questions your instructor may assign:

$$ Why is this case about team conflict? What conflicts do you see developing?

$$ How is distance affecting team dynamics and performance?

$$ What do you think about the decision to appoint subteam sponsors? What problems can it solve? Which

problems might it not solve?