The document discusses factors that influence the importance of group communication in organizations. It explains that many businesses now have flat organizational structures with cross-disciplinary teams and less hierarchy, increasing the need for face-to-face communication. Effective groups are characterized by common goals, clear roles, trust, and cooperation between members. The stages of team development and types of teams are also outlined.

1. Focusing on Group Communication © 2009 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Chapter 3 Lecture Slides

3. Flat Organizational Structures  © 2009 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Downsizing; eliminating layers of management Reorganizing decision-making power throughout the organization Eliminating functional/departmental boundaries Organizing cross-disciplinary teams to handle broad core processes Face-to-Face communication is prominent Many businesses are: Flat Organizational Structures 1

9. Stages of Team Development  © 2009 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. 3

15. Types of Group Conflict  © 2009 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. 5 Competition Social Dilemmas Procedural Conflict Personal Conflict Substantive Conflict

16. Styles of Conflict Resolution  © 2009 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. 5 Compromise Avoidance Collaboration Accommodation Competition