Find out how to build up a team, empower your teams using the famous Tuckman model!

1. TUCKMAN MODEL
THE LAST REVISION (WHICH WAS REVISED IN 1970) OF BRUCE TUCKMAN'S TEAM-DEVELOPMENT-
MODEL IS AN ELEGANT AND HELPFUL EXPLANATION OF TEAM DEVELOPMENT AND TEAM
BEHAVIOUR.
In my leadership and coaching journey, this has been the best-fit for developing high-
performing-teams. At a more personal level, this is the secret sauce for making my family more
healthier and building impactful relationships.
It's suggested that all teams go through a relatively unproductive stage before becoming an
effective team
If you are a leader or a coach - this model suggests that you should adjust your leadership style
as the team develops maturity, its ability, and relationships. Beginning with a directing style,
moving into coaching mode, collaborating, delegating and finally, detaching yourself.
Try this and this will optimize your team performance.
Niroshan Madampitige (CSP, CSM, PMI-ACP)
Agile Coach | Keynote Speaker | Trainer | University Lecturer
Co-founder Scrum Meetups in Colombo
Head of Delivery, Gapstars

2. FORMING
UNCERTAINTY ABOUT
ROLES, LOOKING
OUTSIDE FOR GUIDANCE.
Some attempt to define the job
to be done
Team members look outside for
guidance and direction
People feel anxious and are
unsure of their roles. Most
look to a leader or coordinator
for guidance.
FORMING
STORMING
NORMINGPERFORMING
ADJOURNING

3. STORMING
GROWING CONFIDENCE IN
TEAM, REJECTING OUTSIDE
AUTHORITY.
Team members resist
the task demands
Team members deny the tasks
and look for the reasons not to
do it.
People still feel uncertain and
try to express their individuality.
Concerns rise about the team
hierarchy.
FORMING
STORMING
NORMINGPERFORMING
ADJOURNING

4. NORMING
CONCERN ABOUT BEING
DIFFERENT, WANTING TO
BE PART OF TEAM.
There is an open exchange of
views about the team’s problems
The team starts to set up the
procedures to deal with the task.
People ignore individual
differences and team members
are more accepting of one
another.
FORMING
STORMING
NORMINGPERFORMING
ADJOURNING

5. PERFORMING
CONCERN WITH GETTING
THE JOB DONE.
Resources are allocated
efficiently; processes are in place
to ensure that the final objective
is achieved
The team is able to solve
problems
People share a common
focus, communicate effectively
and become more efficient and
flexible as a result.
FORMING
STORMING
NORMINGPERFORMING
ADJOURNING

6. ADJOURNING
TEAM DISSOLVES
Resources are dissolved from
their assignment
Team is recognized for their
achievements
Concluding the operations of a
team is disturbing for members,
especially if they have worked
together for long periods of time.
FORMING
STORMING
NORMINGPERFORMING
ADJOURNING

7. SUMMARY
Building high-performing teams need patience, commitment, and effective
coaching. Tuckman model offers a very simple, yet an effective way to develop
teams. Understanding the stages in this model, helping your teams to navigate
through these stages can make your journey a more comfortable, and fulfilling
one.
Good luck. Get in touch with Niro to find out how he can help you to build high-
performing teams!
Niroshan Madampitige (CSP, CSM, PMI-ACP)
Agile Coach | Keynote Speaker | Trainer | University Lecturer
Co-founder Scrum Meetups in Colombo
Head of Delivery, Gapstars