Experience shows that project success directly correlates to the team chosen to accomplish the project goals. Research shows that teams that feature a broad base of experience and diverse mindsets and that communicate frequently perform at higher levels.
Haskell places emphasis on selecting the ‘right’ team members with the project goals in mind. There are eight steps involved in this process:
- Define the Goals– This seems intuitive, but often teams are assembled without a focus on the mission. What will the team accomplish? What challenges will it face? What equipment and capabilities will be required in the design?
- Focus on Communication– Ensure that teams have the power and access to communicate and collaborate freely and frequently. Do not allow job titles, office location, or formal roles to limit or restrict communication of ideas.
- Define Team Member Roles– Make the effort to clarify what each team member is expected to contribute and why they were included. Communicate this information to everyone so that they understand not only their own role but also those of others.
- Encourage Innovation – Create an environment in which new ideas are welcome. Encourage fact-driven and data-driven questions as well as analytical thinking.
- Seek Team Members with Passion– Identify individuals who have a passion for the topic. Passion drives people to succeed and brings energy to the team.
- Consider Past Failures and Lessons Learned- Refuse to allow previous negative experiences to prevent individual access to the team. Previous challenges teach invaluable lessons. This perspective can guide your team to the best solution and help avoid difficulties and design pitfalls.
- Emphasize Ownership and Accountability– Set expectations that commitments will be met and that the success of the team depends on each member accomplishing the goals assigned to them.
- Demand Authenticity– Insist that your team be open and honest with each other. The result will ensure transparent communications and minimize misunderstandings. Let your team members know that they will be respected.
By following these steps, an exceptional team can be assembled for any project. Team members will be empowered to think independently, present their ideas freely and openly support each other. This will take your team’s performance to the next level while driving the team to success.
Haskell builds teams for a broad range of projects focused on our customer’s needs. These teams help make Haskell a leader in project delivery.
For more information, contact Haskell Director of Packaging Operations, Bela Jacobsen.
