Collaboration in cross functional teams

In today’s business environment, collaboration is termed as a very critical success factor. Every aspect and process requires co-ordination in order to get the desired results. And only the members of the organization can enhance that co-ordination by working together with intent to complete the given task collaboratively. Even the greatest of strategies and plan fails if there is no collaboration. Its collaboration that helps teams achieves their goals. 
 
Collaboration is all about each member in the team contributing something that will cohesively fit together to lead to a successful and productive outcome. It seems easy that teams can work smoothly together with the ultimate objectives in mind. But, it is rather challenging when it is taken into action, especially when there is an ask for cross functional team work. A cross-functional team is an organizational team consisting of members at the same level of hierarchy in the organization but serving in different areas yet work towards a common goal. Organizations not only strive to collaborate well with its clients or suppliers but collaboration within the members of the organization is also of great importance. 
 
Cross functional team work is always expected to work within the pre-determined quality and cost factors which makes it more challenging though there are major benefits attached to the concept of cross functional teams. Following are the benefits lead by the concept:
 
  • Growing relationships
  • Time management 
  • Innovation 
  • Accountability
  • Productivity
  • Aligned objectives etc.
 
Research has shown that 75% of cross-functional teams are dysfunctional or have failed on at least three of five criteria: 1) meeting a planned budget; 2) staying on schedule; 3) adhering to specifications; 4) meeting customer expectations; and/or 5) maintaining alignment with the company’s corporate goals."
 
Keeping all the things mentioned above into the account, it is time to polish yourself with the various guidelines given below. This will help you empower your ability to work in cross functional teams. 
 
  • Ensure that you know and agree to the roles and responsibilities assigned to you in your team project
  • Be aware of what strengths will help you achieve your goal and make efforts to pull it to the best of your ability
  • Enhance the creative quotient. Your job is not just to complete the task but complete it effectively. Creativity will not just benefit your organization but also benefit your own personality
  • Be open-minded and highly motivated
  • Make communication with your team member a priority. This will encourage a flow of different ideas and transparency.
  • In case of conflicts, settle them without taking into account your personal biases and make it amply clear that you are not taking any sides.
  • Time spent with your teammates is an opportunity to build a healthy relationship that will help you in your work and in completing team goals
Cross functional teams if acquired and maintained effectively, are great to have in the organization. It not only helps organizations to grow but its members as well.
HR Collaboration Cross functional teams Teamwork coordination Collective effort Organizational goals