The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

It’s striking to read a book that is so focussed on the product of de management: create a TEAM.

Although it’s an old book (2002), it’s being considered a standard work for people who’re trying to onderstand the way their team works. I got it from a friend, after explaining an exercise I did with our scrum team.

The book is written in a way that makes it easy to read. Which almost hides the message: building a team is hard.

themodelThe model the book uses is seemingly easy. The 5 dysfunctions are:

  • Dysfunction #1: Absence of Trust

    The fear of being vulnerable with team members prevents the building of trust within the team.

  • Dysfunction #2: Fear of Conflict

    The desire to preserve artificial harmony stifles the occurrence of productive ideological conflict.

  • Dysfunction #3: Lack of Commitment

    The lack of clarity or buy-in prevents team members from making decisions they will stick to.

  • Dysfunction #4: Avoidance of Accountability

    The need to avoid interpersonal discomfort prevents team members from holding one another accountable.

  • Dysfunction #5: Inattention to Results

    The pursuit of individual goals and personal status erodes the focus on collective success.