Communication and Performance in Co-Located and Distributed Teams: An Issue of Shared Mental Models of Team Members?

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to test whether the shared mental models of team members have an effect on team performance, communication, and physical arousal in two distributed teams in pursuit of a common goal. A sample (N = 15) of newly formed navy teams was compared with a sample (N = 13) of seasoned navy teams. The results showed that familiar teams displayed higher performance levels, faster reaction times, more accuracy, and greater mission success compared to unfamiliar teams. A significant shift in communication strategy and physiological response (heart rate) was observed between the teams and from baseline to low workload. Implications for team training are discussed.

Acknowledgments

The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense of Norway.