The group may sometimes fell that it is wasting time because tasks are unclear and some role confusion may exist. Members may behave as if they want to be told what to do, and, because of unclear expectations, tend to be somewhat formal. Ideas are brought forth and challenged. Members test each other for boundaries and motives. Questions emerge about the team's purpose and support.
Conflicts arise, contributing to group tension.
Their successful resolution of conflicts leads to on-going guidelines for the future. They feel safer in disagreeing without becoming threatened. Cohesion of purpose and strategy starts to emerge. The momentum begun at the norming stage builds rapidly to power the team into high performance, producing visible results and a driving energy. Mission is clear and the group taps the talents of its individual members for best use.