High-performing teams are actually characterized by a number of dynamics, including energy, creativity, shared commitment, and more. These qualities can be observed, quantified, and measured. By looking at high-performing teams and measuring their success, other teams can be trained to perform at higher levels.
What to Look for in a High Performing Team
In looking at teams and what makes them perform, there is the enthusiasm that plays a role. Studies found that patterns of communication including the energy and engagement outside of formal meetings were a huge factor in productivity.
In looking further, they asked managers to allow coffee breaks to have the most employees there to socialize, and it actually increased productivity. This opportunity for people to engage in an informal environment improved productivity by 20% among some teams.
Measuring with Wireless and Sensory Tools
One researcher developed a wearable badge that was able to measure more than 100 data points per minute in natural behavior. This tool could measure communication patterns, allowing them to map behavior using detailed data. It could analyze tones people use, whether they face each other, how much they talk, listen, and interrupt, and more.
Comparing this data shows which behaviors are found among highly productive teams. It allows for an action plan for improvement.
What Are the Key Elements of Communication?
Three aspects of communication have the largest impact on team performance. The first, energy, is measured by the number of exchanges between team members and what the nature of each is. This could be a simple exchange such as a question and answer, or a conversation.
Face-to-face communication is the most valuable, with the next being by phone or video conference. However, technology becomes less effective when more people are added to the call.
The next important part of communication is engagement, which is how energy is distributed among team members. Finally, exploration is communication members have with people outside of their team. The high-performing teams seek outside connections, which was found most important for creative teams.