^
| y = productivity
| 4
| xxxxxxx
| xxxx
| xx
| 1 3 xx
| xx xxx
| xxx xxxx
| xxxxx 2 xxxxxx
| xxxxxx
|-------------------------------------------------->
x = time
Forming
Storming
Norming
Performing
Explanation
forming
when forming there is some friction, but not as much yet since members still need to get to know each other
storming
members get to know each other, find out about how they can work together more effectively
lots of trial and error, little productivity
norming
people start cooperating well and strong dynamics are developing
the productivity rises quickly
performing
members know exactly who they are working with and how each person works best
mutual support, little to no friction
Practical Criticism
when adding/removing members there is a second curve starting out which will behave the exact same but is at a different time in the progression
it just takes some time for all people to adjust
total productivity =
productivity of previously established team
productivity of established team + new people/person
many overlapping graphs and summing them up is a more practical explanation than just a single line
Conclusion
this only works if teams exist as-is for larger durations (minimum 2 months) to get going
ripping apart teams early because of “productivity” is not smart, especially if done repeatedly
adding/removing a single member can throw everything off balance, tho a currently “perfroming” team will take it better/recover faster than a currently “norming” team