Conflict Resolution - Problem Solving

Conflict is a natural part of life. If the process of conflict resolution is considered as an opportunity for growth and change in the work environment, the potential for a positive outcome is immense. Whether as a team or on an individual level, the ability to solve problems through collaborative efforts and managing change is crucial in achieving overall success. It is imperative that the team establishes a common goal and creates roles and responsibilities. Once identifying conflict and the reasons why it occurs, team members should look for peaceful and mutually satisfying methods to minimize conflict.
Learning to work as a team is a critical organizational competency that is based on the characteristics of the team. Participation on a team does not require that one change his/her personality. Interpersonal skills and technical skills are a good combination of skills to blend. An important aspect when constructing a team is that the team members share the same objectives and goals and is clear on the mission and purpose of the team. An effective team is a group of people with different backgrounds, skills and abilities, highly communitive, working together on a common purpose with clearly defined goals blending successfully, and getting along. Goal setting, clarifying the reason for the team coming together and what the team hopes to accomplish must be further defined as well as methods to measure progress.
An open line of communication is very important to the success of the team.
Responsibilities and tasks associated with the project should be clearly explained so that the members of the team are aware of their contributions to the effective and efficient outcome of the product. Multiple methods of communication should be utilized so that each team member is kept in the loop. E-mail, written correspondence, conference telephone calls, and meetings are mechanisms utilized to keep the team abreast of project progress. Open communication enhances team morale.