Bruce W. Tuckman (1965) modeled the group dynamic path from group to team with the following phases: Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning. With knowledge of the Graves Model, we can see clear connections between how each phase corresponds to a Graves level.
The developmental dynamics described by Clare W. Graves are universal in the sense that they apply to different system levels: intrapsychic, in family systems/small groups where rank dynamics according to Raoul Schindler (1973) apply, in larger teams, for organizational culture, and in larger cultural spaces. At the team level, the Tuckman model applies, which is very practical to use, for example, in team leadership:
The 5 Phases of Team Development
Forming – Graves 2: The Orientation Phase
At first, everyone is very cautious. People get to know each other and are formal and polite. Here, the Graves 2 values of security, belonging, and establishing contact are in the foreground.
Storming – Graves 3: The Conflict Phase
After some time, the dynamics become more fiery. Group members want to contribute themselves and their ideas. It's about conquering certain positions of influence and helping to determine the direction. Conflicts emerge when two group members clash and have different opinions.
The Graves 3 themes of status in the group, power, influence, leadership roles, and assertion dominate this phase of team development.
Norming – Graves 4: The Regulation Phase
The group develops ground rules and establishes certain work process norms. Generally accepted rules help refocus on the work.
The Graves 4 themes of rules, order, structures, and norms lay the foundation for performing.
Performing – Graves 5+6: The Working Phase
Based on this foundation of order, the team can now leverage its synergies and work its way into the performing phase. Now every team member knows where the strengths of the other team members lie.
Mutual cooperation and support lead to the team successfully acting as a unit while orienting themselves toward the common project goal.
Transforming – Graves 6: The Dissolution Phase
After project completion, human relationships remain. This phase was later added by Tuckman as "Adjourning."
Practical Application in Team Leadership
Understanding these phases enables leaders to purposefully guide teams through the development process:
- Recognize the current phase: Each phase has characteristic features
- Adapt your leadership style: From directive (Forming) to facilitating (Storming) to supporting (Performing)
- Normalize conflicts: The Storming phase is necessary and valuable
- Consciously promote transitions: Targeted interventions can facilitate phase transitions
References:
- Tuckman, B. W. (1965). Developmental sequence in small groups. Psychological Bulletin, 63, 384-399
- Schindler, R (1973). The relationship between sociometry and rank order dynamics
Develop Teams Successfully
Use the esc Profile for targeted team development and identify the Graves profiles of your team members
DISCOVER ACCOUNT - Analyze Your Team