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3.1a Team Formation
A high-performing team is more than just a group of talented individuals; it is a balanced ecosystem of skills, personalities, and shared goals. The project manager's task is to assemble and acquire the right mix of capabilities for the mission.
🏗️ Skills Matrix & Composition
Before the work begins, the Project Manager must ensure the team has the right mix of capabilities.
Technical Skills
Create a Skills Matrix to identify gaps early and plan for targeted training.
Diversity
Ensure a mix of perspectives to avoid "Groupthink" and increase creative problem-solving.
Availability
Negotiate with functional managers for dedicated time vs. shared resource allocation.
Experience
Balance senior mentors with junior learners to ensure long-term project sustainability.
📋 The RACI Matrix
The gold standard for defining roles and responsibilities.
- R (Responsible): The "doer." The person who actually performs the task.
- A (Accountable): The "owner." The one person who must sign off. (Only one "A" per task!)
- C (Consulted): Subject matter experts who provide input before the task is finalized.
- I (Informed): Stakeholders who are kept up-to-date on progress but don't perform work.
🚦 Exam Trap: Multiple Accountables
If an exam scenario shows multiple people being "Accountable" for the same task, it's a recipe for confusion. There should only be one person ultimate responsible for the outcome.
🤝 Negotiating for Resources
In matrix organizations, you often "borrow" your team.
- Alignment: Show the functional manager how the project supports their department's goals.
- Strategic Value: Present the project's high-level business case and impact.
- Escalation: Only involve the Sponsor if a critical resource gap threatens project viability.
📝 Exam Insight: If the team is confused about who does what, the first step is to create or review the RACI Matrix. If the team is missing a critical skill, the first step is to perform a Gap Analysis.