ABSTRACT
Virtual teams have all the characteristics of a small group except for the face-to-face interaction. However, virtual teams should meet FTF at the beginning of a project and at important junctures throughout the project when possible. Peter Ivanov, a leading business consultant for virtual teams, recommends meeting face-to-face at least once each year. Different types of groups include social groups, support groups, training groups, therapy groups, problem-solving groups, and many more. Group work can be especially frustrating when some members engage in unproductive behaviors. One characteristic of effective groups is cohesiveness, which is the quality that causes the members of the group to be attracted to the group and willing to endure despite challenges. A method of generating ideas that assures equal participation from all members is called nominal group technique.
