Teams are formalized groups. Effective informal groups go through a process of development which meet certain conditions. Teams are formed by an outside entity, the instructor, not the centrality of purpose upon which successful informal groups are formed. Since formed teams do not naturally possess these essential characteristics of successful informal groups, the characteristics must be developed in teams, usually by outside guidance and support. Table I Determinants of Successful Group Formation 1.
Informal groups come together to provide some perceived benefit specifically for the group members.
When the size of the group becomes too large for the group to reach a consensus on the common interests or the methods of attaining the common interest, the group either splinters or begins to formalize, that is, it begins to develop structured relationships, formal objectives and rules, etc. Without the above conditions the groups never really come together to form a cohesive group. Without these same conditions, formed teams will not come together either. Already introduced are some of the characteristics observable in groups. These are the characteristics that can be observed attendant to groups after they have formed and become established.