Too often, we think successful groups are the result of sheer luck or an exceptional leader. In reality, group effectiveness follows a clear rhyme and reason. Groups don’t achieve true collaboration by accident—they evolve through specific developmental stages, with each stage requiring targeted behaviors and tasks.
Unfortunately, traditional theories of group development aren’t always helpful. They paint an unflattering picture of group members as passive or overly aggressive, offering little actionable advice. This leads many to believe that dysfunction is inevitable—a phase to endure rather than a challenge to overcome.
But there’s good news: with the right understanding and deliberate actions, group members can actively shape the group’s journey, creating environments that support both relationships and results.