The makings of a hot group

History demonstrates that great projects and products are often the result of great teams. Products and projects as diverse as the Macintosh, the new Volkswagen Bettle, and the Lockheed Shunkworks were all spawned by charismatic teams. How they do it? In a microcosm, the IDEO Nightline shopping cart team-though they were only together for a week- displayed many of the characterustics of hot groups. 

First, they were totally dedicated to achieving the end result. No one doubted that shopping carts could use some improvement, and everyone was enthusiastic.

Second, they faced down a slightly ridiculous deadline. When the hurdle is high, there's a tremendous sense of achievement in getting anything done by the deadline.

Third, the group was irreverent and nonhierarchical. Despite the deadline, they joked and played around-like brainstorming up a sports utility shopping cart-to let off steam.

Fourth, the team was well rounded and respectful of its diversity. Though the team was drawn from widely divergent disciplines, they had tremendous respect for their fellow members. You knew you were selected for your ability, not seniority or political skills.

Fifth, they worked in an open, eclectic space optima for flexibility, group work, and brainstorming. There were high ceilings with no internal walls, no sense that you often have in a typical corporate setting that "the company" wants it a certain way.

Finally, the group felt empowered to go get whatever else it needed. Hot teams connect to the outside world. They know that answers don't lie within. 

The art of innovation by Tom Kelley with Jonathan Littman