Leading Technology-Based Project Teams

Abstract: The results of a field study of technology-based projects identify specific barriers and drivers to effective team performance. The article provides insight into the organizational environment and managerial leadership conducive to high project performance in technology-oriented team environments. The results suggest that many of the performance criteria have their locus outside of the project organization; yet managerial leadership, at both the project level and senior management level, has significant impact on the team environment that ultimately affects team and project performance. In addition to managing the technical aspects of the project, team leaders must pay particular attention to the people side, managing relations across the entire work process, including support functions, suppliers, sponsors, and partners. An engineering manager can use this article to gain additional perspective into the processes of teamwork, and to glean ideas for enhancing project team performance in technology-based organizations.