A team contract outlines the rules governing how a project team will interact during the course of their project. It is not a legal document per se, but more of an agreement in principle that provides a common understanding of acceptable behavior between team members throughout the project.
Introducing a team contract during the forming stage of team development can help team performance. Benefits may include the setting of clear expectations, promoting buy-in, commitment and agreement to a common set of team values.
Team contracts should be customized to meet the needs of the project and the team. Ask the team to help write the contract. Remember the KISS principle and keep it simple. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
Team Contract
Participation
We will:
- Be open and honest
- Encourage teamwork
- Be open to all ideas
- Attend project meetings
Communication
We will:
- Agree on the best way to communicate various information
- Focus on problem solving
- Not blame others
- Present ideas clearly
Problem Solving
We will:
- Actively participate in solving problems
- Use constructive criticism
- Solve problems in a timely manner and not let them pile up
Meetings
We will:
- Arrive on time
- Be prepared and ready to proceed
- Actively participate
Code of Conduct
We will:
- Be honest and ethical
- Work together to meet all project deadlines
- Communicate to each other honestly