Lesson 4: Resolution of Team Divergence

Conflict Catalysts

There are eight catalysts that indicate a difference or conflict is about to happen (Garton & Wegryn, 2006). Each is briefly explained below:

1. Indifference: The level of commitment team members have to the project is viewed as unimportant or of lesser importance than other activities.


2. Personal Problems: Team members have problems affecting team interactions and commitment. Some personal problems may include the illness or death of a close loved one, financial pressures or the break up of a relationship.


3. Organizational/Policy Change: There may be organizational or policy changes resulting in process, protocol, or leadership changes.


4. Lack of Respect: Some cultures do not value the input of defined groups based along gender, ethnic or various cultural boundaries. In these cases some team members may not be afforded the respect due to them.


5. Work Stress: People deal with stress differently. While some thrive on the challenge of stress, others find it debilitating.


6. Personality Clashes: Annoying habits, mannerisms or language others find difficult to deal with.


7. Members of Other Teams: Members of one team or a subgroup on a team may rely on members of another team or subgroup for information to be able to proceed with the project. It the other team members are dysfunctional or unwilling to supply the needed information a conflict will ensue.


8. Vendor Problems: At times vendors create difficulty with team members especially when they alter specifications or change models team members have been working upon.