Chapter 14: Developing Superior Project Teams - A Study of the Characteristics of High Performance in Project Teams

Edward J. Hoffman, Ph.D.US National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Claire S. Kinlaw, Ph.D.Developmental Products, Inc.
Dennis C. Kinlaw, Ed.D.Developmental Products, Inc.

Introduction

Project management is an approach being used by practitioners in a large variety of professions. The recent expansion in the project management method has led to an increased focus on project tools and techniques. The central importance of the team dimension has often been given minimal attention. In 1998, a research study commenced to explore the relationship between team development and performance in United States (US) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) projects. This chapter relates the findings of NASA's study. It identifies the characteristics of superior project teams and it indicates the behaviors associated with project managers of high performing teams. Sections in this chapter are:

• Rationale and Significance

• Literature Review

• Study Methodology and Data Collection

• Summary of Key Findings

• Applications and Next Steps.