The direction function involves managers communicating with both individuals and teams, or groups. There are face to face gatherings of people which don't match this definition, such as mobs and gangs. Groups may be formally established and designed, or they may be an informal gathering of individuals. Some groups are formed to address continuing tasks, while others may be ad hoc in nature, disbanding after completing a task.
Groups form for many reasons and in many ways.
Common concerns or problems among people often lead to the formation of several people into a group. Proximity is another common reason for group formation. The necessity of additional expertise in accomplishing a task can also lead to the formation of a group. People enjoy sociable activities and may form groups to derive pleasure for that reason. Groups are a pervasive fact in organizations.