SELF DIRECTED WORK TEAMS

INTRODUCTION
This is the case study about IRS - a government agency - and an employee
improvement program conducted by them. In order to conduct the
improvement program four task groups were formed with a leader and
facilitator in each. They were given special training on small group dynamics. But
later on it was found that theories were not applicable and groups found their
own paths of development. After eight months it was found that three out of
every four groups found that the program helped them evolve. The self-directed
teams rooted in trust, acceptance and mutually agreed decision making was way
more effective. They developed a system that ensured various breaks were
taken on specific schedules to serve the customers better. An automated
database program, step by step employee handbook for adjustments and a
single tax form, which all focused in serving the customers better was
implemented.

QUESTIONS
1. Improvement programs were found to be very effective in IRS. These
programs helped in improving the customer services. The impact groups
came up with many productive ideas. Being able to do as self-directed
they came up with many innovative ideas and helped in benefitting both
the organization and a better service to the customer. Even the
employees were motivated and helped in increasing their overall
productivity in various areas.

2. Rigid structure and close monitoring is not much effective. It depend on

the work. For an unskilled work this may benefit. But in the case of IRS
these were not found to be effective. The theories were found not
applicable and they emerged as self-directed teams which were later
found out to be very effective.

3. The IRS impact teams evolved as effective groups. They had many
characteristics of a good teams, such us:
a. Self-directed
 b. Self-motivated
c. Fast Decision making
d. Loyalty within members
e. Trust within members
f. Acceptance within members
g. Innovative ideas
h. Hassel free communication.

CONCLUSION
From the case study it was found that group dynamics are not something
that can be taught but something that should evolve as a result of working
together. Theories and all can be justified for literature, but practicality is the
concern.