How to Define Team Ground Rules

The video discusses the concept of ground rules in team settings, emphasizing their role in setting expectations and creating a code of conduct. It suggests that teams should ideally create their own ground rules for better adherence. The process of setting ground rules involves team discussions and formalization. Ground rules cover aspects like timekeeping, respect, accountability, and confidentiality. Enforcing these rules is crucial, and while strong teams often self-regulate, leaders must intervene when necessary.

What is the primary benefit of allowing a team to create its own ground rules?

• It ensures all possible rules are covered.

• The team is more likely to respect and adhere to them.

• It reduces the need for team meetings.

• It saves time for the project manager.

Why might ground rules be unnecessary in some teams?

• The team is too small to need them.

• The team is working remotely.

• The team has a strong shared organizational culture.

• The project manager prefers not to use them.

What is the first step in setting ground rules according to the video?

• Facilitating a team discussion.

• Posting the rules on the intranet.

• Thinking through non-negotiable rules.

• Reviewing past project failures.

What should be done after the team agrees on the ground rules?

• Post them where everyone can see and revisit them regularly.

• Only discuss them in private meetings.

• Ignore them until a problem arises.

• Send them to the client for approval.

Which of the following is NOT typically covered by ground rules?

• Accountability and responsibility.

• Confidentiality and security.

• The color scheme of the project.

• Timekeeping and respect for time.

What is the role of the project manager in enforcing ground rules?

• To delegate enforcement to team members.

• To act swiftly and appropriately on infractions.

• To rewrite the rules as needed.

• To ignore minor infractions.

What should be done if a team member repeatedly violates the ground rules?

• Ignore the behavior.

• Have a team meeting to discuss the behavior.

• Consider removing the individual from the team.

• Change the ground rules to accommodate the behavior.