Project leaders can create a working environment for their team members that will lead to mission success.
In this video clip, a panel featuring Mike Cisewski, Joe Gasbarre and Kaitlin Liles, who were team members on the SAGE III/International Space Station project, discusses different elements that can enable a project team to be successful.
Video key learning points:
- 1.
Relationship building activities can help project team members get to know each other on a personal level and build strong connections. A team with strong relationships is more willing to sacrifice for each other and step in and help when needed during difficult times with the project.
- 2.
The project leader should create an environment where everyone on the team feels they are given the respect to share their opinions and be heard.
- 3.
Project managers should communicate a clear rationale behind their final decisions to their team, so everyone understands why the decision was made.
- 4.
Having deputy project managers with different leadership styles helps with communicating effectively to everyone on the team.
- 5.
A project leader should attempt to manage by influence and build consensus with their team instead of leading by top-down direction.
Related Resources
APPEL KS Courses: Building and Leading NASA Teams
APPEL KS Course: The Best Teams: Introverts, Extraverts and Ambiverts
NASA VPMC: Building Effective Project Teams for Mission Success (full video)
APPEL KS Knowledge Inventory: Team Leadership
