1. Management has noticed that the quality improvement work group is struggling because members seem to be working in different directions. Which suggested action can the company take to increase group cohesiveness?
Answer: C
Physically isolating the group can increase cohesiveness among its members.
By physically isolating the group, management can create an environment that encourages collaboration and communication among members, allowing them to focus on their shared goals without external distractions.
A) Establish more rigid roles for group members
While establishing more rigid roles can provide clarity, it may also lead to rigidity and limit members' ability to collaborate effectively. This approach could further exacerbate the issue of disparate directions rather than fostering a cohesive team environment.
B) Decrease the difficulty of becoming a group member
Lowering the barriers to entry may result in a less committed group, which could dilute the quality of participation and contribution. This option does not address the current struggle with cohesiveness and could potentially lead to a lack of shared purpose among members.
C) Physically isolate the group
Physically isolating the group enables members to work closely together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. This environment encourages open communication, collaboration, and the development of stronger interpersonal relationships, which are essential for cohesiveness.
D) Make the group larger
Increasing the size of the group may complicate communication and coordination, leading to even greater challenges in achieving cohesiveness. A larger group can create additional barriers to collaboration, as more members can mean more diverse opinions and less alignment on shared goals.
Conclusion
Physically isolating the group is the most effective strategy to enhance cohesiveness, as it promotes direct interaction and focused collaboration among members. Other options either introduce more complexity, dilute commitment, or fail to address the underlying issue of alignment in direction, making them less suitable for improving group dynamics.