"Combines the concepts of work teams and empowerment."
"The most complete treatment I′ve seen on the subject.... If you′re making the move to self–directed work teams, this is the book to read!" Chuck Day, editor–in–chief, Industry Week
This book provides basic answers to a wide range of questions about self-directed teams: how they work; what makes them effective; when they are and aren't worth using; how to get them going; and how to maintain their vigour and productivity over the long haul. Drawing on a survey of 500 organizations that are using self-directed teams (conducted jointly with the Association for Quality and Participation and "Industry Week"), the authors reveal how organizations of all kinds - blue-collar and white-collar, established operations and new businesses - are using teams to improve quality, productivity, and morale. They provide hands-on guidance in designing, implementing and maintaining self-directed teams, including ways to address challenges inherent in the empowerment process, such as the need for extensive training and new leadership roles.