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Tuckman’s team-development model

Tuckman’s model describes group development through forming, storming, norming and performing. Members initially orient themselves, encounter differences, establish shared ways of working and become able to concentrate effectively on the task. Tuckman and Jensen later added adjourning for completion and separation. The model helps managers recognise team needs, but real teams may revisit stages or develop differently as membership, tasks and circumstances change.

Worked example

A project team begins cautiously, then disagrees over priorities. Its manager helps clarify roles and agree working rules. Cooperation improves and the team delivers its work. At project closure, members review learning and arrange handover before separating.

Common mistake

Do not present the stages as an inevitable timetable or call dorming the original final stage. Adjourning is the later fifth stage.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA BT Direct September 2026–June 2027
ACCA SBL Supporting September 2026–June 2027
FIA FBT Direct September 2026–June 2027