Team: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

Any group of persons or animals can form a team when linked in a common purpose.

Thus teams of sports players can form (and re-form) to practise their craft; and transport logistics executives can select teams of horses or of dogs or of oxen for the purpose of conveying goods.

Theorists in business have recently popularized the concept of constructing teams. There are differing opinions on the efficacy of this new management fad. Some see "team" as a four-letter word that is overused and underuseful. Others see it as a panacea that finally realizes the Human Relations movement's desire to integrate what is best for workers and best for managers. Still others believe that teams are indeed effective, but that they are also dangerous because of the potental for exploiting workers — that is, they can rely on peer pressure and peer surveillance.

Compare the more structured/skilled concept of a crew, and the advantages of formal and informal partnerships.