The development of high-performing teams is often undervalued in business because it does not seem to directly impact the bottom line. However, failure to build teams with intention can lead to minimally acceptable performance at best, with less than optimal bottom line results. At worst, it can produce hard feelings and diminished trust, both of which undermine future team performance and significantly undercut long-term results because team members are contributing well below their potential.
In today’s business world of highly matrixed organizations, increasing numbers of geographically disperse and virtual employees, and volatile, uncertain, and complex conditions, it is more important than ever to pay attention to team development.