Building and Maintaining a High-Performing Team, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article discusses effective strategies for establishing and maintaining high-functioning teams. It asserts that team performance starts with careful member selection based on complementary skills, commitment to goals, and interpersonal chemistry. Once formed, teams must define clear roles and specific, measurable goals. Member expectations around norms, communication and decision-making should be aligned upfront. Ongoing performance management through feedback, recognition and addressing poor performance is also necessary. Teams require open communication facilitated through meeting structures and collaboration tools. Conflict should be addressed constructively through open discussion focused on problem-solving rather than blaming. Providing frequent, specific recognition and rewards helps sustain motivation. When implemented consistently, these techniques can transform a group of individuals into a cohesive unit that consistently achieves superior outcomes through a people-first, process-driven approach.