All teams require norms and protocols, or acceptable standards of behavior. Such norms tell team members what is expected of them. They provide guidance for things such as “participation, communication, conflict management, project and task management, problem solving and decision-making, and how to pursue creative efforts” (Nemiro, 2004, p.234). Norms also address timeframes and accountability measures. Where timeframes clarify deadlines by which actions must be completed, accountability norms spell out necessary actions for on-time completion/delivery as well as what happens when deadlines aren’t met (Nemiro, 2004, p.258).
Time frames and accountability norms play an important role in a team’s ability to reach their goals successfully. They allow the team to work in sync, assigning tasks, spelling out required steps, and ensuring that deliverables are completed on time. The lack of such norms invites chaos, which makes it very difficult for the team’s project to flow in the right direction.
Members of a successful virtual team must understand the delicate balance between coordination, collaboration, and autonomy (Duarte, 2006, p.125). Coordination and collaboration are more difficult in a virtual setting, making autonomy that much more appealing. Too much autonomy, however, may make it difficult to adhere to timeframes and accountability norms. When this is coupled with the challenges presented by team members’ different locations, time zones, and schedules, it can present an even greater challenge for the team leader.
Duarte , D. L., & Snyder, N. T. (2006). Mastering virtual teams: Strategies, tools, and techniques that succeed. San Francisco : Jossey-Bass.
Nemiro, J. E. (2004). Creativity in virtual teams: Key components for success. San Francisco: Pfeiffer.
