RESEARCH FOCUS -
BUILDING VIRTUAL TEAMS
Virtual Team
Attributes
VT require many of the attributes of traditional project teams
such as Leadership, Organisation and Education (see
Team
Attributes ). However, VT often
require different levels and emphasis on these characteristics, for example Team
Spirit. In addition, they also require a number of special attributes and
working processes of their own, as shown below
Figure 3.
Special Attributes of VPT
Attributes
|
Defined
|
Examples
|
|
Culture
|
|
|
|
Commonality
|
Working
to achieve a mutual cause, or idea
|
Problem
solving, Decision making
|
|
Compatibility
|
Utilising
similar skills, systems or techniques
|
Standards,
Procedures
|
|
Culture
|
All
attributes and influences upon the individual or group, wherever
they originate
|
Social,
Religion, Arts, Education, Work
|
|
Language
|
Preferred
national way of verbal and written communication
|
Talking,
Presentations, Writing, E-mail,
|
|
Safety
|
Ensuring
people are safe in their work and social environment
|
Health
& Safety, Personal security
|
|
Virtual
|
|
|
|
Insight
|
Provision
of localised information relating to work and its influences
|
Discussions,
Research, Visits
|
|
Respect
|
Appreciation
of skills, knowledge and experience for circumstances
|
Understanding,
Awareness
|
|
Timing
|
Ensuring
information and work is provided when required
|
Response,
Preparation, Detail, Time zones
|
|
Trust
|
Behaviour
in keeping with commitments
|
Openness,
Honesty
|
|
Tolerance
|
The
amount of variation allowed before reproach
|
Delegation,
Control, Standards, Allowances
|
Whilst it is essential that most of these special
attributes are be available within the VPT. The exact nature of the
attributes required will depend on the project requirements, the
individuals, their culture and specialisations. The Figure below
Illustrates the position of VPT in relation to more traditional project
teams, together with some of the significant characteristics.
Differences and Attributes of VPT
VT exhibiting theses attributes and work approaches
will overcome many of the problems often encountered by projects operating
remote teams. Many of these VT attributes are found in the individual team
members, as skills and capabilities.
|
