Reading 3 Effects of Crew Composition on Crew Performance: Does the Whole Equal the Sum of Its Parts?

Although many studies of group performance have been conducted, we still know very little about how group composition affects performance in tasks demanding a high level of interdependence,

such as those performed by tank crews. Such groups are distinguished by the fact that the tasks they undertake require the coordination of all crew members, each of whom is performing a separate

and distinct role. The successful outcome of the performance depends on synchronization of the activities of all the crew members (Jones, 1974).