The greatest truism about groups is that every group is unique. It’s only natural then for group processes, structure, and culture to vary from group to group as a function of the group’s tasks, stage of development, and membership. That said, there are several barometers of group effectiveness that seem to apply universally, and that correlate with group performance.

Things Effective Groups Do Well

• The group periodically takes time to reassess its performance, purpose, and process.
• There’s no tyranny of the minority (a pushy or dominating subgroup or individual).
• Group members stay involved, interested, and listen to one other.
• Most decisions are reached through genuine consensus or concordance.
• Group tasks are well understood and, when action is taken, group members are clear about their roles and assignments.
• Members aren’t afraid to propose creative ideas or to express feelings.
• The emotional atmosphere feels comfortable and tension-free.
• All group members participate in discussions, which relate to the group task.
• The group is okay with disagreement, and criticism or conflict is constructive and expressed in frank, respectful ways.
• It’s clear who the group facilitator is, but she or he doesn’t dominate the group.

Things Ineffective Groups Tend to Do

• The group never discusses its own process or performance.
• The atmosphere reflects apathy, boredom, or high tension.
• Actions and decisions are unclear and occur before the real issues have been discussed and resolved.
• A few people dominate discussions, while others sit silent.
• From what’s being said, it’s hard to figure out the group task or objective.
• Group members don’t listen to each other, so people often repeat themselves.
• Conversations after meetings reveal that people were holding back their real feelings.
• Disagreements get swept under the rug, as if they are threatening or counterproductive.
• An individual (or subgroup) is so aggressive the group often accedes to his or her wishes.
• Any criticism produces tension or embarrassment in the group.