Each member brings a unique expertise to the team that needs to be recognized by all. Because of that expertise, each person's views are important in developing a successful program, and these views need to be heard. Full and open discussion does not mean that each view must be acted on by the team. There can be disagreement on how to approach a particular issue, but that disagreement must be reasoned disagreement based on an alternative plan of action rather than unyielding opposition. Issues that cannot be resolved by the team must be identified early so that resolution can be achieved as quickly as possible at the appropriate level.
Empowerment is critical.
The functional representatives assigned to the IPT at all levels must be empowered by their leadership to give good advice and counsel to the Program Manager. IPT members cannot be expected to have the breadth of knowledge and experience of their leadership in all cases. However, they are expected to be in frequent communication with their leadership, and thus ensure that their advice to the Program Manager is sound and will not be overturned later, barring unforeseen circumstances or new information. One of the key responsibilities of our leadership is to train and educate their people so they will have the required knowledge and skills to represent their organization's leaders. As IPT members, people are an extension of their organizations and their leadership, and they must be able to speak for those organizations and leaders.