Organizational-Behavior Exam Dumps : WGU Organizational Behavior (GTO1, C715)

ASelf-managed work teamis a group of employees (typically 10 to 15) who perform highly related or interdependent jobs and take on many of the responsibilities of their former supervisors. In a traditional work structure, a supervisor would handle tasks such as planning and scheduling work, assigning tasks to members, making operating decisions, and taking action on problems. In a self-managed environment, the team collectively takes over these managerial duties.

These teams may even select their own members and evaluate each other’s performance. The goal of organizing into self-managed teams is to increase employee involvement and empowerment, theoretically leading to higher job satisfaction and productivity through synergy and collective control. Unlike "problem-solving teams," which only make recommendations, self-managed teams have the authority to implement solutions and take full responsibility for outcomes. While this can be highly effective, the success of self-managed teams depends heavily on the organizational culture and the level of training provided to employees. If members are not prepared for the interpersonal demands of self-management—such as resolving internal conflicts or managing the pace of work—the team can struggle. However, when properly implemented, self-managed teams represent the highest level of team autonomy in organizational design.

To perform effectively, a team requires three different types of skills. First, it needs people with technical expertise to perform the task at hand. Second, it needs people with problem-solving and decision-making skills to be able to identify problems, generate alternatives, and make competent choices. Finally, and perhaps most importantly for group cohesion, a team needs people with stronginterpersonal skills. Interpersonal skills include effective listening, feedback, and conflict resolution.

In the scenario provided, the team had the "hard" skills (technical and analytical) but lacked the "soft" skills required to navigate the social complexities of working as a unit. Without interpersonal skills, a team may have the smartest individuals but still fail because they cannot communicate effectively or resolve the inevitable friction that arises during a long-term project. While "propensity for social loafing" is a behavior to avoid, and "authoritarian personality" is often a hindrance, the foundational "ability" cited in organizational behavior literature as a prerequisite for team success alongside technical and problem-solving skills is interpersonal competence.

In the context of global operations, teams are often physically dispersed across different time zones and geographic locations. To maximize participation, organizations rely onvirtual teamtechnologies. Usingonline computer technologies and/or phone communication(such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and collaborative platforms) allows for real-time or near-real-time interaction that bridges the physical distance. These technologies enable members to share ideas, provide immediate feedback, and engage in the "give-and-take" necessary for effective decision-making.

While unilateral messaging (Option C) or physical mail (Option D) might transmit information, they lack the interactive richness required to sustain high levels of participation and engagement. Effective global leadership involves selecting the communication channel that best balances the need for speed with the need for social presence. By utilizing synchronous online tools, global teams can simulate the "face-to-face" experience, which helps in building the rapport and trust that are often difficult to establish in a virtual environment. This approach ensures that all members, regardless of their location, have an equal platform to contribute to the team's objectives.