In what situation do teams typically function better than individuals?

Teams typically function better than individuals especially in situations where innovation and creativity are critical. This is because diverse teams bring together a variety of perspectives, experiences, and skills, which can lead to more creative problem-solving and innovative thinking. Collaborative environments that encourage brainstorming and idea-sharing can foster a level of creativity that an individual working alone may struggle to achieve. Team members can build off each other's ideas, challenge assumptions, and inspire new concepts, significantly enhancing the potential for innovation.

In contrast, situations that involve clear individual expertise may result in individuals performing better on their own, as their specialized knowledge can be more effective than collective input. Likewise, when competition is emphasized, individual performance may take precedence, as this can motivate members to focus on their personal achievements rather than collaborative efforts. Additionally, in scenarios involving simple and routine tasks, individuals may operate more efficiently alone without the need for team dynamics, which can introduce complexity that is unnecessary for straightforward tasks.