So how does the Team Management Profile (TMP) work in relation to Tuckman’s model?

In short, the TMP helps to fast-track the team’s development and get the group to the Performing stage as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Because the TMS models address both operational as well as people factors, it makes it easier for teams to establish effective norms around not only group processes but also team dynamics.

Forming: This is the best place to use the TMP. Setting off on the right foot is important for teams. Establishing a shared language and a common understanding of ‘who we are’ as team members is best achieved before the team hits the next stage...

Storming: If the team is experiencing problems, the TMP can be a great way of addressing some of the causes and identifying constructive ways of re-focusing on productivity.

Norming: The Team Management Wheel can provide insight into what types of norms the team will establish. For example, if all team members work in one part of the Wheel, they may neglect tasks in the opposite part of the Wheel. Alternatively, if the group is more balanced around the wheel, the norms that they establish might relate more to accommodating different approaches within the team.

Performing: Just because the team makes it through to the Performing stage, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are performing with optimal norms. As in the previous stage, the TMP can be used to help team mates analyse their effectiveness of the work habits they have developed.  Finally, sustained performance will require the team to pay attention to regular Maintaining (which ideally should become part of their process norms).

What stage is your team at, and what will the TMP tell you about how you work together?

Chris Burton