A Team of Leaders

Modern corporations require teamwork, which gives rise to outdoor team-building programs, like rock climbing, ropes courses, scavenger hunts, and so on. Unfortunately, when corporate participants return to their offices, most quickly forget such out-of-the-routine team-building lessons. Consultants Paul Gustavson and Stewart Liff offer an alternative: the “Five-Stage Team Development Model.” They expertly – though at times cumbersomely – explain the principles behind their “team of leaders” program, how it works and the benefits it provides. Their interesting but complex model – with its multiple steps and layers – rests upon a solid theoretical base (a team of leaders is a clearly desirable goal), but may prove challenging to apply in the real world. getAbstract recommends this ambitious manual – and its clear graphics – to executives, managers, start-ups and HR officers who can mine it for innovative, forward-looking strategies for team building, more efficient work flow, greater worker engagement and increased profits.