Forming (team development)
Forming is the initial stage in Tuckman’s team-development model, when members orient themselves to the task and one another. People may seek clarity about purpose, roles, expectations and working arrangements. Politeness or dependence on the leader can conceal uncertainty. The model is a guide to possible patterns, not a requirement that every team follows an identical timetable.
Worked example
A newly assembled team introduces members, clarifies its assignment and asks who will make decisions. The leader helps establish purpose and initial ways of working.
Common mistake
Do not mistake polite agreement for established trust or assume a team cannot revisit forming when its membership or task changes.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |