Great Teams? Google's Survey Says...

Great teams aren't rocket science - but Google decided to study what makes them tick. What did they find? Great teams have five things in common.: 

• Dependability: Can we count on each other to do high quality work on time?
• Structure & clarity: Are goals, roles, and execution plans on our team clear?
• Meaning of work: Are we working on something that is personally important for each of us?
• Impact of work: Do we fundamentally believe that the work we’re doing matters?

• Psychological safety: Can we take risks on this team without feeling insecure or embarrassed?

Can I be counted on? Can I count on my team?

When organizations define "dependability" they inevitably fall into the trap of highlighting EMPLOYEE dependability. Google defines it as:

 "On dependable teams, members reliably complete quality work on time (vs the opposite - shirking responsibilities)."

Of course the most effective teams are dependable - they come through with care on time. Each individual relies on every other team member to come through, or the whole team fails. Being a person who comes through, on a team of people who come through, matters. But is that all there is to dependability? 

Can I depend on my leader? My organization?

It's all well and good to tell me to be dependable, but when the timelines are set, is my input respected? Does my manager stand up for me and my work when pressured for more than is reasonable? Does my leader work with me to make sure my authority matches my responsibility? When I'm working with other teams, does my manager pave the way or wait for me to hit roadblocks? ​Dependability may be more influenced by organizational constraints than individual capabilities or intent. 

To be effective, people rely on their organizations to give them the resources, timelines, authority and direction to BE dependable. It seems obvious, but often goals are set with flimsy evidence or based on weak assumptions in the absence of good data. Often, organizations can significantly improve dependability simply by ensuring people have what they need to get the work done. 

Value flow

Introductory Rate:
$1600

What's the nature of your stream, and where are you swimming?

In a three hour session , your team or cross-functional group of 1-12  people explore the nature of their place in the larger value stream. Supported by two interdisciplinary facilitators,  you will identify where blockages occur, when poor process or lacking authority come into play, and how simple communication tools can significantly improve outcomes across the value stream. 

Book a free consultation today to find out how this approach can work for you.