Organizational Behavior (Stephen Robbins)

The Punctuated-Equilibrium Model

Temporary groups with deadlines don’t seem to follow the previous model. Studies

indicate that temporary groups with deadlines have their own unique sequence of action

(or inaction):^9

• The first meeting sets the group’s direction.


• The first phase of group activity is one of inertia.


• A transition takes place at the end of the first phase, which occurs exactly
  when the group has used up half its allotted time.


• The transition initiates major changes.


• A second phase of inertia follows the transition.


• The group’s last meeting is characterized by high levels of productive activity.

This pattern is called the punctuated-equilibrium model,

developed by Professor Connie Gersick, a Visiting Scholar

at the Yale University School of Management, and is shown

in Exhibit 5-2.^10 It is important for you to understand these

shifts in group behaviour. If you are ever in a group that is not

working well, knowing about the shifts could help you think

of ways to make the group move to a more productive phase.

Phase 1

As a group member and possibly a group leader, you need to recognize that the first

meeting sets the group’s direction. A framework of behavioural patterns and assumptions

through which the group will approach its project emerges in this first meeting. These

lasting patterns can appear as early as the first few seconds of the group’s life.

Once set, the group’s direction becomes accepted and is unlikely to be re-examined

throughout the first half of the group’s life. This is a period of inertia—that is, the group

tends to stand still or become locked into a fixed course of action. Even if it gains new

insights that challenge initial patterns and assumptions, the group does not act on these

new insights in Phase 1. You may recognize that in some groups, during the early period

of trying to get things accomplished, no one really did his or her assigned tasks. You may

also recognize this phase as one where everyone carries out the tasks, but not in a very

coordinated fashion. Thus, the group is performing at a relatively low level. This does not

necessarily mean that it is doing nothing at all, however.

156 Part 2Striving for Performance

Completion

Transition

First

meeting

Phase 1

Phase 2

(High)

(Low)

A (A+B)/2

Time

Performance

B

EXHIBIT 5-2 The Punctuated-Equilibrium Model

Ever wonder what

causes flurries of

activity in groups?

*