The success of a project will depend on how efficient project teams are in executing project goals and objectives during the project management lifecycle. This will be impacted, in part; by how well work assignments are matched to individual competencies, how well members work within a group and whether project assignments are effectively prioritized. Here, project managers can help by ensuring that project goals and objectives are clearly articulated, making the right work assignments, and encouraging teamwork and commitment.
1. Increased efficiency
When working in a team, you are working towards a common goal or set of objectives. The whole process of your work becomes more efficient, for example if there is a problem faced along the way there are more ‗hands on deck‘ to help solve the issue. Similarly, having multiple team members on board allows you to get the work done faster with shared responsibilities. From a management perspective, encouraging teamwork in the workplace will allow your company or department to take on additional work, and in turn generate extra revenue without having to hire more staff.
2. Idea generation
One of the greatest benefits of working in a team is the inspiration and ideas that can result from team discussions. When running ideas by one and other, there is a lot more scope for creativity in comparison to working on a project alone. In an effective team environment, staff members feel confident in suggesting their ideas. When working autonomously and having a direct responsibility for ideas, people tend to present the safer option to their managers. However, when in a team brainstorming environment the notion of suggesting creative and unique ideas is welcomed. Teams also bring people together from different backgrounds and levels of experience which can help in creating optimal solutions
3. Share the workload
When working in a team towards a common goal, the workload is shared among all team members. In a perfect scenario, this work should be shared equally and be distributed according to the strengths of each member. Teamwork also allows for helping another team member when you have finished your workload. It is important to remember that you are all working towards the same goal – if you finish your work before others you should offer your assistance in order to help complete the project.
4. Support network
It is important to remember that support and a sense of belonging in a workplace can contribute greatly to job satisfaction. A strong team environment can act as a great support mechanism for staff members. Group members will help each other, rely on each other and build trust within the group. During challenging times, support is crucial for the success of the project; when members are able to look to one and other for guidance or support, focus can remain on the overall goal. If a challenge is handled individually you are at risk of becoming overwhelmed and making irrational decisions.
5. Enhanced communication
Communication is key to the success of many projects – so why not engage in an activity that can help enhance your communication skills? Teamwork activities such as meeting together to discuss ideas or collaborating information to contribute to a project require both verbal and written communication skills.
