by Michele White
Executive Coach and People Developer, and Associate Consultant at AOD.
Inter-team collaboration presents unique challenges. While individual teams strive for clarity, shared purpose, high levels of interdependence, reflexivity, and psychological safety, achieving these qualities across teams can be even more daunting.
As a Systemic Team Coach, I’ve come to understand the importance of coaching the connections between teams rather than focusing solely on individual teams. Interdependence is a critical factor in effective team dynamics, both within and between teams, as changes in one part of a system inevitably impact other parts, whether intended or not.
Enter the concept of the “Team of Teams,” popularised by General Stanley McChrystal. This approach emphasises seamless collaboration among teams and is characterised by several key aspects, including multifaceted communication, a focus on effectiveness and agility, the importance of relationships across teams, and a shared common purpose.
An example: Coaching the Team of Teams in practice
While a single day cannot transform a group into an effective Team of Teams, the coaching intervention sparked a significant shift in mindset and behaviour.
Let’s take a closer look at how this concept translates into action through a real-world example.
Consider AOD, a group of team coaches working with seven teams within a corporate function in a large NHS Trust undergoing a groundbreaking modernisation program. The initial discussions with sponsors revealed a pressing need to reduce silo-working and enhance inter-team collaboration.
The coaching journey began with individual sessions for each team, followed by a collective one-day coaching session for the entire Team of Teams. The day kicked off with an exploration of the current context and system, setting the stage for a transformative shift in working methods. A provocation about interdependence sparked a realisation that maintaining the status quo was no longer viable.
Fostering understanding and collaboration
To foster understanding and collaboration, the teams engaged in activities aimed at uncovering their core purpose, proudest achievements and contributions to the overarching vision. Through a World Café process, they shared insights and best practices, leading to a deeper appreciation of commonalities across teams. As discussions unfolded, the energy in the room surged, signaling a growing commitment to collective success.
Harnessing synergy
A powerful illustration of synergy came through a symbolic exercise involving a web of interconnected strings. Participants witnessed firsthand how a change in one part of the network reverberated throughout the entire Team of Teams. This visual metaphor underscored the interconnectedness and collective impact of their actions, fueling a sense of empowerment and unity.
Embracing interdependence
Finally, teams delved into the practical aspects of interdependence by identifying support needs and offerings among themselves. These candid conversations paved the way for tangible commitments to enhance sharing and collaboration, laying the groundwork for sustained cooperation beyond the coaching session.
While a single day cannot transform a group into an effective Team of Teams, the coaching intervention sparked a significant shift in mindset and behaviour. Follow-up sessions with each team continue to reinforce the principles of interdependence and collective success. The concept of the Team of Teams has taken root, provoking innovative thinking and action across the organisation.
In conclusion, creating synergy and value-add in Teams of Teams requires embracing the grit of inter-team collaboration. By fostering understanding, harnessing synergy, and embracing interdependence, organisations can unlock the full potential of their teams to navigate complex challenges and achieve collective success in an ever-evolving world.
References and further reading
- McChrystal, G. S. A., Silverman, D., Collins, T., & Fussell, C. (2015). Team of teams. Portfolio Penguin.
- Beckett-McInroy, Dr. Clare (2021) Coaching Teams Of Teams: What, Why And How | Forbes
- Clutterbuck, David (2023) Coaching Teams of Teams
- Integral Agile, Team of Teams Roles
- Clutterbuck, David (2019/20) Beyond Team Coaching: Coaching Teams of Teams | Kingstown College
- Musica, Steve (2018) Team of Teams Organizational Transformation | Lean East
- Collaborative Coaching, Systemic Team Coaching – Coach the Entire Team System
- Meehan, W. F., & Starkey Jonker, K. (2018) Team Of Teams: An Emerging Organizational Model | Forbes
- Snelson, Dan, Team of Teams: A Leadership Model for a Complex World | The Army Leader
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