A three year study yielded eight performance indicators of what constitutes
an extraordinary group. Members generally agreed with these statements:

* Compelling purpose: We are inspired and stretched in making this group's
work our top priority.

* Shared leadership: We readily step forward to lead by demonstrating
our mutual responsibility for moving our group towards success.

* Just enough structure: We create the minimal structure necessary to
move our work forward.

* Full engagement: We dive into our work with focus, enthusiasm
and passion.

* Embrace differences: We value the creative alternatives that
result from engaging different points of view.

* Unexpected learning: We are excited by what we learn here and
how it applies to other work, other groups and our lives outside
of work.

* Strengthened relationships: Our work leads us to greater trust,
interdependence and friendship.

* Greater results: We work toward and highly value the tangible and
intangible outcomes of our work together.

Reference: 'Creating an extraordinary group' by Geoff Bellman and
Kathleen Ryan' in T + D., September 2010, pp. 56-61.