Historic Roots of Team Theory and Practice

Abstract

Current levels of development in the theory and practice of work teams rest on a complex historical foundation. This chapter provides an overview of that foundation with an emphasis on early laboratory research and practical developments at work sites in Western Europe, the U.S., and Australia. The contributions of major thought leaders are mentioned, including Lewin, Emery, and Trist. And the path of development is traced up to the recent use of virtual teams. The theory continues to be further elaborated by field studies in a wide range of settings and by practice that has spread to new areas of business, to non-profit organizations, and to government. Finally, the business case for use of teams is briefly addressed, emphasizing the point that teams are so widely used now that the quality of their implementation rather than their presence is the key to competitive advantage.