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Lynae Marie

Project plan

Project plan

Project plan

The problem

The problem

My proposed research problem is the challenge of understanding and improving the interaction habits and effectiveness of small global teams.

It highlights several factors that can either hinder or enhance team performance, including communication styles, the balance between individual and collective perspectives, and cultural and language differences.

The role of technology, communication methods, and cultural norms in shaping these interactions is also emphasized as an area of concern that needs to be addressed to enhance team cohesiveness and effectiveness.

Connections

Connections

The universe is a web of intricacies, and even the smallest detail can reverberate through the cosmic ether. Our interdisciplinary approach allows us to connect the dots.

We collaborate with experts from various fields so that our research is comprehensive, and when we truly uncover the connections, breakthroughs are imminent.

As we continue to forge partnerships, the scope of our project will expand, increasing our potential for astounding discoveries.

Communication studies

Communication studies

The field of communication studies offers valuable insights into the complex workings of global teams.

By examining how different communication styles impact online interactions and how cultural subtleties can influence acceptable communication and message interpretation, it can provide a deeper comprehension of potential obstacles.

The study of intercultural communication is particularly connected to my research problem, as in practice it can help pinpoint methods to reduce misunderstandings and strengthen team unity.

IT management

IT management

The field of IT management serves as the technological base for my research question. Digital tools, platforms, and collaborative software have made simultaneous collaboration on global teams a reality.

This area also peers into aspects like data security, virtual communication technologies, and remote project management tools in connecting teams across geographical distances.

Understanding the possibilities and limitations of the current tools used by global teams will help uncover ways in which technology can be used to enhance the collaboration and effectiveness of global teams.

Sociology

Sociology

Sociology introduces the cultural and societal aspects into my research.

It enables an examination of how cultural norms favoring collectivism or individualism influence the decision-making process, collaboration, and conflict resolution within global teams.

Understanding cultural diversity will facilitate creating more positive team interactions and can offer practical lessons on how organizations can foster inclusive, culturally aware team environments.

Professional experience

Professional experience

While collaborating within global teams at The Inclusive Group and Tech Fleet, I utilized a range of communication and organization tools like Slack, Google Meets, Vowel, LettuceMeet, Discord, and Zoom.

During these experiences, I observed that different cultures exhibited distinct communication styles, varying levels of personal sharing, and a range of expectations regarding feedback and critique delivery styles.


I found that in English-speaking teams, individuals for whom English is a second language often hesitated to voice their opinions due to concerns about making mistakes or unintentionally causing offense.

This reluctance to speak up resulted in valuable insights going untapped, highlighting the importance of fostering an environment where all team members feel comfortable contributing.


Project scope

Project scope

Given the limited four-week timeframe for this study, my primary focus will be on validating key assumptions.

These assumptions include the presence of communication challenges within global teams due to cross-cultural differences, the tendency for ESL (English as a Second Language) speakers to be hesitant in sharing their insights, particularly when they lack established relationships with team members, and a recognized business need to improve communication efficiency among global team members.

The secondary focus of this study will involve investigating two key aspects. Firstly, to determine whether industries have established standard procedures to tackle cross-cultural communication challenges. Secondly, to gather insights from team members regarding their preferred communication methods to enhance both communication and team cohesion.