Conflict Resolution in Working Teams

Conflict Resolution in Work Teams

Conflict in work teams is inevitable but does not necessarily impact a team’s performance negatively, and the successful use of teams can be the cornerstone of good management as long as constructive solutions are implemented along with open-minded communication within the group.
Conflict Resolution in Work Teams
What is conflict?
Conflict, as it pertains to productivity in work teams, is defined as, “the clashing or variance of opposed principles, statements, arguments, etc.” (Oxford). While there are different types of conflict, many of the sources and causes are the same. The primary issues that are the source of most conflict, according to a study on sources of project conflict by Kezsbom (cited in Townsley, 1995) include:
• Goals and priority issues
• Personality and interpersonal issues
• Communication and information flow
Differences in perspective, in relation to goal setting and pri...