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3.1b Tuckman's Model & Development
Every team goes through a predictable lifecycle. As a project leader, your style must shift from Directing to Empowering as the team builds trust and autonomous capability.
🪜 The Five Stages of Growth
The Tuckman model is the foundation for understanding team dynamics on the PMP exam.
1. Forming
Directing
People are polite but guarded. Focus on clear goals and defined roles.
2. Storming
Coaching
Friction and ego clashes. Manage conflict and foster psychological safety.
3. Norming
Supporting
Habits form and trust builds. Facilitate shared decision-making.
4. Performing
Delegating
Self-organizing and peak efficiency. Get out of the way!
5. Adjourning
Celebrating
Project wrap-up. Focus on recognition and transition support.
🧠 Psychological Safety
Identified by Google as the #1 predictor of team success. It is the belief that one will not be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes.
- Safe to Fail: Mistakes are seen as opportunities for "Fast Learning."
- Safe to Challenge: Team members can question the status quo without fear.
- Safe to Speak: No "stupid questions"—everyone has a voice.
💡 Pro Tip: Regression is Real
Adding a new member or losing a key player will often knock a project team from Performing all the way back to Storming. Be prepared to shift your leadership style back to "Coaching" when this happens.
📝 Exam Insight: If team members are "arguing over technical approaches" or "challenging the PM's authority," they are in Storming. This isn't a failure—it is a mandatory step toward Performing.