As time passed, team members interacted individually via e-mail or phone, but not as a large group. The RIT was rejuvenated about one year ago, as part of a new corporate initiative to standardize and improve processes. Each of the sites was connected using this software on desktop computers and members could see and hear each other through the large screen videoconference connection. Multiple team members from the same site shared one computer. Simultaneous participation helped to accelerate the process and allowed quieter members to display their ideas for everyone to consider.
More vocal members didn t dominate, so a wider range of perspectives began to be heard.
Electronic collaboration also helped to mitigate the uneven quality and time lapses of the videoconferencing. Remote team interactions through well-designed and facilitated electronic meetings appear to have contributed to positive, trusting team relationships. RIT members are now comfortable sending out questions or general calls for help and other team members feel comfortable responding. Aleksandra commented that this is a group that is happy to share. One of the key goals to build relationships that encourage the sharing of best practices is therefore being met.