Types of Work Group

            A number of different types of groups exist in the workplace. They can be clasified into two main categories: formal and informal. These categories and several subcategories are shown in figure.

Formal group is a group officially created by an organization for a specific purpose. There are two major types of formal groups: command and task. A command, or functional groups is a formal group consisting of a manager and all the subordinates who report to the manager. Each identifiable work unit (manager and subordinates) in an organization is considered to be a command group. A task group is a formal group created for a specific purpose that suplement or replaces work normally done by command groups. Task groups can be either relatively permanent or temporary. A permanent task group, often called a standing comittee or team, is charged with handling recruiting matters in a narrowly defined subject area over an indefinite, but generally lengthy, period of time.

Infromal group is a group that established by employees, rather than organization, to serve group member’s interest or social needs. There are two major types of informal group created: interest and friendship. An interest group is an informal group created to facilitate employee pursuits of common concern. A friendship group is an informal group that evolves primarily to meet employee social needs. Informal groups can benefit an organization by enhancing the flow of information and reinforcing the willingness of employees to work together cooperatively. They can be detrimental, however when members place group concern above important work goals or have a serious falling out. Thus managers need to understand informal groups because of their potential for influencing organizational effectiveness.