Building highly effective teams in an animal welfare organization
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Issue Date
2019-03-22
Editor
Authors
Wright, Graeme
License
Subject
nonprofit teams
organizational development
systems thinking
team effectiveness
team performance
trust
organizational development
systems thinking
team effectiveness
team performance
trust
Abstract
Optimizing team effectiveness is critical to enhancing organizational performance, maximizing
available resources, and realizing mission-driven outcomes. For British Columbia Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA), increasing teams effectiveness results in more
vulnerable animals being saved. The inquiry explored how the BC SPCA can build highly
effective teams. I conducted two structured dialogue sessions with permanent BC SPCA staff
using an action research approach with an appreciative stance. The structured dialogue methods
used included structured interview matrix and design thinking. This study adhered to all ethical
requirements of the Royal Roads University. Based upon the participant data gathered and the
literature reviewed, I recommend establishing highly effective teams through (a) gaining
knowledge of systems thinking; (b) fostering trust; (c) building relationships, clarifying values,
communicating, learning, supporting, and committing; and (d) utilizing structured dialogue
methods for future inquiries.