Page 138 - E2 Integrated Workbook STUDENT 2018

Chapter 10

Benefits and problems with groups

2.1 Benefits of groups

There are a number of benefits from team working.

 Increased productivity – working as part of a group can result in
a better overall result than could be achieved if each person
worked independently.

 Synergy – Synergy describes the phenomenon in which the
combined activity of separate entities has a greater effect than the
sum of the activities of each entity working alone – often described
as a way of making 2 + 2 = 5.

 Improved focus and responsibility – each member can be given
the responsibility for specific tasks, avoiding overloading one
person with too much responsibility which may result in a loss of
focus.

 Improved problem solving – having a group made up of
members with different abilities will mean a higher likelihood of
having the appropriate knowledge and skills to solve problems.

 Greater creativity – the idea that two (or more) heads are better
than one. Group discussions can generate and evaluate ideas
better that individuals working alone.

 Increased satisfaction – working as part of a group can bring
social benefits and a sense of belonging to its members. In
addition the group will offer support to its members and provide a
facility for individual training and development needs.

 Increased motivation – members will work hard for the other
members of the group. They will feel a collective responsibility and
will not want to let the other members down.

 Improved information flows – there will be more effective
communication through participation in group discussions.

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