Jim Towne heads a newly formed virtual information technology team tasked with developing and implementing technology innovations for all global units of a major corporation. Twenty professionals work on the team. Most of the work is done virtually, although the team has had two face-to-face sessions.
Which of the eight characteristics of team excellence is lacking in this team?
Based on this analysis of team effectiveness, should Jim intervene at this time, or should he just keep monitoring the team? If you think he should take action, at what level should he intervene (internal or external)? If internal, should his action be task or relational?
What specific leadership functions should Jim implement to improve the team? Why?
If you have experience working in a virtual team, what are some team leadership elements that work well in a virtual team? What are some elements that do not translate to a virtual team?