The principle of synergy suggests that the measure of outcome as a result of group activity is greater than the sum of each individual’s potential contribution. In economic times when managers are expected to achieve more, with fewer resources, teamwork and team projects are once again high on the priority list.

If you have just been asked to head up a team for a project, there are simple hints for consideration:

Goals
The team must be absolutely clear what the collective goal or target should be. This should follow the SMART target principle (see previous articles on SMART targets); most importantly a measurable outcome within a specific period of time.

Apportioning
The overall goal or target should be divided into mini targets and apportioned to individuals. This ought to be as fair and balanced as possible, tailored to individual’s strengths and experience. Of course, better to have people volunteer to take ownership of a task, but this may not always be possible.

Meetings
The team should meet at the same place, at regular agreed intervals during the course of the project. There should be an agenda and an expectation of reporting of progress. This is much more disciplined than an ‘as and when’ information sharing strategy.

Chair
Where possible, meetings should have a chair, who acts as a gateway for communication.

By following these simple hints, you should be able to navigate your team through the project. Of course if you were to undertake a management training course, you’d learn a lot more in-depth principles of targets, and team work such as Belbin’s team roles and team dynamics.