We widely accept the idea that collaboration and collegiality are critical workplace attributes, and that the most effective teams are the ones that get along well. But research shows that diverse teams are more productive. With diversity often comes widely different points of view.
Disagreement and differing perspectives are a fundamental characteristic of any team or group – but how does the way we disagree distinguish high-performing groups from others?
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We’re introducing our newest team member, who joins us as Director of Research and Evaluation: “I’ve always been fascinated by systems of all kinds – mechanical linkages, circuit boards, solar systems, ecosystems. At the tiny end of the scale, we ourselves are made up of linked systems of cells and chemicals and vessels; at the vaster end, our entire universe is a system of clusters of galaxies linked by gravity. But not all systems are as remote as these. Among the most intricate and compelling systems are the ones we navigate every day: the relationships, groups, networks and hierarchies that make up the personal and professional fabric of our lives. We’re born into some of these systems – our families and cultures – and others we choose and build based on our goals and needs. Some social systems are rigid and rule-defined; others are loose, flexible and informal. You’ve heard it before: humans are deeply social animals.”
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