Define group. State different stages in group formulation process.

 Group 

A group is defined as a collection of two or more two people working together to achieve common objectives. Such groups are set of interacting and interdependent people having a common belief on at least one particular objective. There can be several purposes for formulating the groups and hence there can be different types of groups in the organization. For our purpose here, groups are taken as workgroups. Such groups are the basic building blocks of every organization as the productivity of the organization can be scaled high with effective mobilization of workgroups. Workgroups form and follow roles, rules, and norms to control members' behavior. Groups contribute to organizational effectiveness when group goals are aligned with organizational goals.

Stephen Robbins - "A group is defined as two or more individuals Interacting and inter-dependent 

David  H. Smith - "A group is two or more freely interacting individuals who share a common Identity who have come together to achieve particular objectives.

" John R. Schermerhern Jr. " A group is a collection of people who regularly interact with one another and purpose.

GROUP FORMATION PROCESS

Group formation takes place in a series of stages. It is a dynamic process. Various researchers in social science have concluded that there is no fixed rule for group formation. For effective formulation, the following five stages need to be fulfilled: 

i.Forming Stage: This is the first stage of group formation in which people show their willingness to join the group. They introduce each other. They may have a number of queries, confusion, and uncertainties regarding the group, group members, and the leader. Group norms, purpose, structure, leadership, and acceptable group behavior are also unclear to be interested people. There is no certainty of joining the group because of such confusion.

ii. Storming Stage: In this stage, the degree of conflict and confrontation will be increased because of individual differences. Experiences change the attitude and expectations of people. Membership expectations, interpersonal styles, alignment in group goals and individual goals, etc. may distract the people from joining the group. There may be conflict in leadership, group authority, and control. People who cannot accept leadership, roles, and responsibility will leave the group formation process. Only those people who negotiate and accept the common goals join the group. After this, members start forming and accepting the group norms and values.

iii. Norming Stage: In this stage, members of the group start cooperating and develop a harmonious relationships among group members. They start feeling group goals and existence. They show group cohesiveness and group identity. This stage will be complete with accepting a common set of expectations and leadership. Each member becomes clear about roles, responsibility, and authority relationship and accepts group norms and values.

iv. Performing Stage: This is the stage in which group members perform their job as matured, organized, and well functioning organizational unit. Group goals will be satisfied in this stage by the joint effort of each member. Group members will be satisfied by the fulfilling of common goals. Each member evaluates the performance of the group. Temporary groups will seize after the performing stage.

v.Adjourning Stage: Group members analyze the achievements of group effort and performance. If the members get satisfied with the group norms and values; satisfied with the performance of the group, they wish to continue in the group. Those members who are not satisfied with the group performance, they quit the group. Adjourning stage is the final stage in which the group will be seized