Illustration of the Investment Stage

Workplace Norms, Mission Alignment and Conflict

The Investment Stage: Norms, Alignment, and Conflict.

In the investment stage, teams are re-establishing direction following a transition. This is labor-intensive, so frustration is a common emotion. The team wants to forge ahead but the new structure needs to be built or rebuilt. This stage is marked by role confusion and conflict.

Key Pain Points and Blind Spots

Key Pain Point Blind Spot
Unhealthy team normsDisrespect is tolerated.
Lack of alignment with team mission, values, and visionTeammates undermine each other with competing goals and priorities
Unproductive or destructive conflictProblems accrue rather than achieving resolution