Group atmosphere, shared understanding, and team conflict in short duration virtual teams

Abstract

In this study we examine the influence of group atmosphere on perceived team conflict and the development of shared understanding in short duration virtual teams. We conducted a laboratory experiment with 24 short duration virtual teams that were engaged in data model development task. The findings of the study suggest that group atmosphere has strong influence on both development of shared understanding and perceived team conflict. In addition, we also find that national cultural diversity facilitates the development of shared understanding in virtual teams.