How can you recognize the storming stage of team development?

1 What is the storming stage?

The storming stage is the second stage of the Tuckman model of team development, after forming and before norming. It is characterized by conflict, disagreement, and competition among team members, as they try to establish their roles, goals, and expectations. The storming stage can be triggered by various factors, such as unclear objectives, personality clashes, power struggles, or different work styles.

2 How to recognize the storming stage?

It's important to be aware of the signs that your team is in the storming stage of development. These can include increased tension and frustration among team members, frequent arguments and criticism, lack of trust and cooperation, resistance to feedback or authority, low morale and motivation, poor communication and coordination, and reduced productivity and quality. Paying attention to these signs can help you identify if your team is in the storming stage so that you can take steps to improve the situation.

3 Why is the storming stage important?

The storming stage may seem like a negative and disruptive phase, but it is actually a necessary and inevitable part of team development. It is important because it allows team members to express their views, challenge each other, and test their boundaries. It also helps to clarify the team's purpose, direction, and norms. The storming stage can be a source of creativity, innovation, and learning, if handled constructively and respectfully.

4 How to manage the storming stage?

The storming stage can be a challenge to manage, but it is not impossible. As a team leader or member, you can take action to help your team move through the storming stage and onto the next level of development. Acknowledging and accepting the storming stage as a normal and temporary phase is key. Establishing clear goals, roles, and expectations for the team is also essential. Additionally, open and honest communication and feedback among team members should be encouraged. Furthermore, fostering mutual respect and trust, facilitating constructive conflict resolution and problem-solving, providing support and guidance to team members, and celebrating achievements and successes are all important steps to take.

5 How to avoid the storming stage?

The storming stage is an unavoidable part of team development for most teams, but it can be minimized or prevented by taking certain steps during the forming stage. For instance, it is important to select team members carefully based on their skills, personalities, and compatibility. Moreover, providing clear and consistent leadership and direction to the team is essential, as well as defining and communicating the team's vision, mission, and values. Additionally, building rapport and trust among team members as well as establishing ground rules and norms for the team are both important. Finally, providing training and resources to team members is beneficial in avoiding the storming stage.