1. A virtual team is comprised of two or more people, operating
via electronic communication in a geographically disperse
environment. Increasingly, companies are realizing the
benefits of virtual teams via diverse talent, innovative
perspectives and cost savings. The ongoing challenge is that
research suggests that 70% failure rate of virtual teams is not
uncommon. This mass failure rate tends to occur because
managers focus 90% of their time on technology and only 10%
of their time on the people. Managers are given projects and
goals with limited attention paid to engaging people in an
ongoing fashion.
The 7 Essentials for Managing Virtual Teams (University
Readers, 2010) provides a model to increase virtual team
success rates. It is based on the scientific research,
corporate best practices, lessons from virtual team leaders
and practical field experience. By focusing 90% of time on
people and 10% on technology, Virtual Team Managers can
achieve unlimited success. In utilizing the 7 Essentials
model, Virtual Team Managers create meaningful
connections across their team that produces long-term
success.
Virtual Teams Accelerate Advantage
 Increased ability to tap into a global talent
for mission-focused activities
 Targeted business enterprise projects
tested within a pilot-oriented environment
 Integrated proving ground for revolutionary
product and service advancements
 Ongoing outpost for the business
enterprise to launch differentiated
strategies
 Enhanced mission driven culture potentially
replicated for organization implementation
 Advanced financial savings via downsizing
brick and mortar requirements
 Improved company image through stronger
environmental position
Areas of Expertise
 Virtual Team Management
 Organizational Development
 Leadership Development
 Talent Management
7 Essentials for Managing Virtual Teams
Dana E. Jarvis, MPA, MSW, 412.855.5369, djarv4@gmail.com
Maximizing
Technology
Embracing
Dynamic
Change
Proactively
Engaging
Employees
Accelerating
Peak
Performance
Establishing &
Executing
Purposeful
Goals
Stimulating a
Culture of
Excellence
Building &
Sustaining
Trust
7 Essentials
for Managing
Virtual Teams
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