1. Types of Groups Formal Groups Informal groups
Command group : formal group determined by structure
Task group: formal group organized for a specific task
Committees: handles problems outside of regular assignments
Informal groups
Social groups: people who enjoy each other’s company (chat groups)
Interest groups: groups that develop informally around a common interest (news groups, listserv members)

2. Characteristics of Groups
Composition
homogenous groups: qualities in common
heterogeneous groups: few qualities in common
Size
small groups: good communication, satisfaction
large groups: can specialize; coordination, communication problems
Status

3. Attraction to Groups Social and emotional needs Instrumental function
social affirmation
recognition
security
prestige
Instrumental function
goal achievement

4. Cohesiveness Mutual attractiveness of a group to its members Causes
1. member similarity isolation
2. group size competition
3. high entrance shared standards success
Cohesiveness

5. Outcomes of Cohesiveness
Group goals support
the organization
Group goals undermine
the organization
1. Communication
detracts from
work
2. Conformity
restricts productivity
3. Goals support
group at expense
of organization
1. Increased
activity &
communication
2. Conformity
to norms
3. Goal achieve
-ment
4. Satisfaction
Cohesiveness

6. Disadvantages to Cohesiveness
Changing course of action is difficult due to high levels of commitment
Socialization can detract from work issues and productivity
Group goals can replace organizational goals

7. Turning the Group Around
Build a record of success
Build the vision
Build a sense of team feeling
Create a competitive edge
Take the group on a retreat