Navigating the 5 Stages of Team Development

In the fast-paced world of business, success is often a collaborative effort. Building a high-performing team is crucial for companies aiming to achieve their goals effectively. Therefore, understanding the stages of team development is essential for organisations seeking to foster cohesive and productive teams. 

Tuckman’s 5 Stages of Team Development

In 1965 Bruce W. Tuckman (Ph.D. in Psychology from Princeton) did a deep dive into the concept of group dynamics and published the original 4 phase model. Then in 1977 this original model was adapted to its current form to include the fifth phase, which is what will be referenced from here on out.

Whilst the model is coming up to 50 years old it is still highly relevant and beneficial to this day. Since the model’s inception, Tuckman’s work has been supported by additional peer-reviewed research, and received recommendations from the likes of Microsoft, Google, Harvard Business Review and Oxford University.

Tuckman proposes that all five phases are necessary for teams to grow, problem solve, and effectively plan and deliver results.

Forming: Laying the Foundation for Success

The first stage of team development, forming, sets the stage for collaboration. At this initial phase, team members are brought together, often with diverse backgrounds, skills, and experiences. Businesses must invest time in cultivating an environment that encourages open communication and establishes shared goals. By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, team building activities can create a strong foundation for effective collaboration.

Invest in team-building activities that promote open communication, and encourage team members to get to know one another on a personal level. Establish clear team objectives and ensure everyone understands their role in achieving them.

Storming: Nurturing Healthy Conflict Resolution

In the storming stage, team members start to assert their individuality, leading to conflicts and differences of opinion. While this phase can be challenging, it is also a natural part of the team's growth. Businesses should view conflict as an opportunity for growth and leverage it to encourage innovative thinking. Facilitating open discussions, active listening, and encouraging diverse perspectives can help teams navigate this stage successfully.

Encouraging open and respectful communication will help to foster an environment where team members feel safe expressing their ideas and concerns. Provide guidance on conflict resolution techniques to facilitate healthy discussions and ensure everyone feels heard.



Norming: Establishing Team Guidelines and Standards

During the norming stage, teams begin to establish shared values, norms, and guidelines. This phase is characterized by increased collaboration, cooperation, and a sense of unity. As a business, it is vital to guide teams in defining their collective identity, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and developing protocols for decision-making and conflict resolution. Emphasise the importance of mutual respect, accountability, and trust-building.

Facilitate team discussions to establish shared values and norms. Encourage participation in decision-making processes to promote ownership and accountability. It is important to ensure you are fostering an inclusive environment where all team members' opinions are valued and respected.

Performing: Achieving Peak Productivity

The performing stage marks the pinnacle of team development, where teams demonstrate high levels of productivity, efficiency, and synergy. At this stage, team members possess a deep understanding of their roles and responsibilities, and this allows for trust and mutual respect to flourish. Companies should focus on nurturing this positive momentum by providing support, recognising achievements, and offering opportunities for professional growth.

Encourage a culture of continuous improvement. Provide resources and training opportunities to enhance team members' skills. Celebrate milestones and individual contributions to boost morale and maintain motivation.

Adjourning: Celebrating Success and Transitioning

The adjourning stage occurs when a team disbands or undergoes significant changes. While often overlooked, this stage presents an opportunity to reflect on achievements, recognise team members' contributions, and celebrate successes. Companies should acknowledge the emotional aspect of transitioning and provide support to team members as they navigate new paths.

Organise a celebratory event or activity to commemorate the team's accomplishments. Facilitate open discussions about future endeavors and provide resources for individual career development. Encourage team members to maintain connections and foster relationships beyond the team.



Developing a cohesive and high-performing team is a crucial aspect of business success. By understanding and applying Tuckman's model, businesses can navigate the stages of team development effectively. From laying the foundation for collaboration to celebrating successes and transitions, each stage presents unique challenges and opportunities. By investing in team development, businesses can foster high-performing teams that are adaptable, motivated, and capable of achieving exceptional results.