Business environments today are dynamic and diverse and because of this, the need for creativity and innovation is vital. One way industry leaders have contributed to innovation is by creating cross functional teams.
These teams bring together talent from various departments and areas of expertise to collaboratively work towards the company’s vision and mission. When cross functional teams are executed correctly, they enhance creativity and deliver on project timelines and goals. This way of bringing innovative individuals together is a great team staffing service.
How to work with a cross functional team?
A cross-functional team is a group comprising of individuals from different departments and roles within an organization. For instance, a cross-functional team tasked with launching a new product might include members from brand and marketing, engineering, sales, customer support, public relations and finance. Rather than working in and managing their respective departments, these employees come together to collaboratively work on projects to successfully execute outcomes.
How can an organisation benefits from Cross-Functional Teams?
Different thought processes and perspectives: various functional areas bring different viewpoints and insights which ultimately leads to better decision making.
Creativity and Innovation: When there is a mix of skills set and experiences, creative solutions are born.
Problem solving turnaround times are faster: Breaking down silos means that teams can make decisions more swiftly and apply changes in real-time.
Communication and alignment of an organisations departments: When team members from multiple departments communication, the organisation benefits and departments are strategically aligned.
Insight to company hierarchy and skill development: Participants from cross functional team gain exposure to the various roles and functions, professional growth becomes second nature.
How to manage cross functional teams?
Creating cross functional teams have many benefits but can sometimes be met with challenges. It is important to know how to manage those teams.
Differing opinions and conflicting priorities: Team members will always have an obligation to their respective home departments.
Communication and Jargon Barriers. Because of different expectations and terminology used in the various departments, misunderstanding can occur.
Confusion in leadership: If project leadership is not clearly defined, decision making can become frustrating.
A Go To Guide for building the perfect cross functional team
In order to build cross-functional teams, there are a few aspects management need to consider
1. Clearly define the purpose of the team and adhere to psychological safety in the workplace
The goal and project plan needs to be clearly articulated to team members so that the entire project team is aligned. Also, team members should feel safe to voice their ideas and opinions without fear of receiving backlash.
2. Be selective in your member choice and use modern day collaborative tools
The willingness to work in a team is a strong characteristic to possess so the selection of team members should be based on functional expertise, collaborative adaptability and communication. Management should also adopt digital tools like Slack, Asana, or Microsoft Teams to update communication and project tracking.
3. Assign your strongest member to lead and facilitate
A highly skilled project manager or facilitator should be appointed to lead the team, be able to resolve conflicts, and ensure that all members are focused on the goal. Leadership in cross-functional teams leans more towards influence and coordination rather than hierarchy. Each member should be explained their role and how it contributes to the ultimate project.
4. Set Ground Rules and encourage regular feedback
Set clear boundaries around communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, and responsibilities. Team members should always be provided with feedback in weekly check-ins and one on one conversations, so improvement is continuous.
5. Encourage Regular Feedback
Build in feedback loops so that the team can continuously improve. This can include weekly check-ins, retrospectives, and one-on-one conversations.
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Managing Cross-Functional Developer Teams
Particularly within the tech landscape, cross functional teams have become popular.
These teams comprise of diverse skill set from frontend and backend developers, UX/UI designers, QA engineers to product managers. But aligning various departments for a common goal is sometimes met with challenges. At times, leaders make mistakes when managing cross functional teams. Heres what you want to avoid:
Not clearly defining goals
A big mistake is diving into projects without clearly defining goals. When goals are not defined, confusion seeps in, efforts are duplicated, and this creates frustration among the team. Draft a well detailed brief and ensure that all parties understand goals, deliverables and timelines. It is beneficial to revisit these objectives regularly.
Blurred Channels of Communication
With team members and stakeholders coming from various departments, poor communication can destroy skill filled cross functional team. Put well structured communication channels in place. Tools like Jira,Slack or Microsoft Teams works well for daily conversations.
The inability to define roles and responsibilities
A common frustration in team work is the overlapping or vaguely descriptive responsibilities. When it’s unclear who is tasked with what, productivity becomes minimal and tasks are duplicated. Outline detailed roles and responsibilities of each member.
Not understanding team culture and dynamics
Cross-functional teams are usually made up of participants with different working styles and cultural backgrounds. If team dynamics are not managed closely and intentionally, conflict may take priority over productivity.
A company culture of respect and inclusion is key. Invest in team-building exercises, encourage open and honest dialogue, and resolve persona issues swiftly. Ensure that empathy and collaboration take precedent over hierarchy.
Micromanaging team members means lack of trust
Cross-functional teams thrive on independent thought processes. Micromanaging team members demotivates team morale and hampers creativity and innovation.It is important to trust team members to deliver.
With the collaboratively effort of a cross functional team and a leader to steer the ship, an organisation is sure to see their efforts become a successful reality.
With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.
A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.
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