According to Tuckman's model, what is the first stage of team development?

Tuckman's model of team development outlines a series of stages that teams typically go through as they form and evolve. The first stage, known as Forming, involves team members coming together and beginning to understand each other's roles, personalities, and the objectives of the group. During the Forming stage, individuals may be polite and reserved as they are just starting to develop relationships with one another. They are getting acquainted with the team dynamics and are often focused on gathering information rather than making commitments.

This initial stage is crucial because it sets the foundation for the team's future interactions. Team members tend to rely heavily on the guidance of leaders during this period. The successful navigation of the Forming stage is essential for the team to progress to the subsequent stages—Storming, Norming, and Performing—where deeper collaboration and conflict resolution occur. Understanding the significance of the Forming stage helps in effectively leading and developing a team throughout its evolution.