There appear to be four main stages that a group goes through on its way to effectiveness.
The first stage, forming occurs when the members initially get together. Relationships are new, people don’t really know each other and tend to be quiet, reserved and non committal.
During this stage it is important to try and get everyone’s:
so that everyone is contactable in one way or another.
Stage two is known as the storming phase of group development. This is where the struggle for leadership happens. Group members tend to get a little worried about whether the group will work or not and although there may be a lot of talking there is usually not much listening taking place. This is where clearly defining individual roles within the group becomes very important.
This third norming stage is when the group starts to cooperate effectively and recognises that there are established work methods to be followed. Group members now feel more secure in expressing their own point of view with the whole group without being criticised.
The final performing stage is when the group is functioning at its peak. All group members feel supported and able to contribute and the group is making decisions.