Module 2: Submit | Team Deliverable - Team Constitution (SLSS-4800_Franklin/Baird) | Julie Swindler/Grace Thomas

    Submit: Team Deliverable - Team Constitution

Introduction and Rationale

A team constitution is a written document created collectively by a team to establish its shared values, goals, expectations, and guidelines for collaboration. Think of it as a “team contract” or “code of conduct” that outlines how team members agree to work together, resolve conflicts, make decisions, and hold each other accountable. It serves as a foundational framework that helps guide the team's behavior, sets clear expectations, and aligns everyone with a common purpose.

Why a Team Constitution Is Valuable

A team constitution fosters a positive and productive team culture by:

• Establishing Clarity: Everyone knows what’s expected, which reduces misunderstandings and sets a foundation for accountability.
• Encouraging Commitment: When team members participate in creating the constitution, they feel a stronger sense of ownership and commitment to the team's values and goals.
• Supporting Conflict Resolution: A constitution provides a structured approach for resolving conflicts, making it easier to address issues constructively.
• Building Trust and Transparency: Outlining communication norms, decision-making processes, and values helps create a culture of openness and trust.

Instructions 

For this assignment, you will use a Lucid template to create a team charter.

1. The team leader for the week will open the link to the LucidSparks Team Constitution Template Links to an external site..

2. Using the Share button in the upper right corner, the team leader will then invite other group members to the collaborative document.

   To create a sharable link in Lucid:

   • Click on the Share button in the upper right of the Lucid screen.

     

   • In the Sharable link section, toggle the switch to "On."
   • Set the dropdown menu to "Edit."

     

   • Click on "Copy link".

     

   • Share the link with your team members.

3. Work collaboratively as a team to develop your Team Charter.

   • Add your team name to the top of the constitution.
   • Add each group member's name to a sticky note in the "Team Members" box.
   • Develop a Team Constitution together using the "Key Components of a Team Constitution."  Although you will be graded primarily on your written content, you may also choose to include pictures, images, meaningful quotes, and any other artwork to enhance your content. 

4. After you finish the charter, the team leader will submit the link to your charter to Canvas on behalf of all team members.

Key Components of a Team Constitution

• Mission and Vision Statements
  The team’s overarching purpose and aspirations. This defines why the team exists and what it hopes to accomplish.
  Example: “Our mission is to deliver .....”

• Core Values
  The principles and standards that the team agrees to uphold in all of its activities and interactions.
  Example: Values might include integrity, transparency, respect, collaboration, and innovation.

• Communication Guidelines
  Agreed-upon methods, frequency, and channels for team communication, including how feedback will be provided and received.
  Example: “We will hold weekly check-ins on Mondays and maintain a group chat for daily updates.”

• Decision-Making Process
  The approach for making team decisions, whether by consensus, voting, or other methods.
  Example: “Decisions will be made by majority vote, but for key issues, all members must agree.”

• Conflict Resolution Protocols
  Methods and approaches for addressing and resolving disagreements or misunderstandings.
  Example: “When conflicts arise, team members will first discuss them one-on-one before involving the team leader if needed.”

• Accountability and Performance Expectations
  Standards for quality, timeliness, and follow-through on commitments. This section also includes consequences for failing to meet expectations.
  Example: “All team members are expected to meet deadlines and proactively communicate any potential delays.”

• Team Motivation
  Strategies to inspire and maintain enthusiasm, commitment, and productivity within the team.
  Example: “We will celebrate milestones with small team rewards and regularly recognize individual contributions to maintain morale and motivation.”

Grading

See the attached Team Constitution Rubric (100 Points).