Stage 1 - Forming Structure and assertive leadership are important in the beginning. Group members are getting to know each other, and leaders must size up each member's role and potential influence in achieving the team's mission. After a cordial beginning, the storming stage takes over. Team members now engage in debate, argument, conflict and basic power struggles. Interpersonal trust is questioned at this stage, as some members attempt to assert control or individual superiority.
Some participants get frustrated and consider the meetings a waste of time.
Strong leadership is needed at this stage to keep the group on track. Stage 3 - Norming Group members begin productive teamwork during the norming stage. They develop roles for working together, realize each others talents, and develop mutual trust and respect. Group cohesion grows as members begin to understand their own roles in the group process, and witness interdependency and synergy. Here a team realizes its most synergistic benefits.