FPX 4102 Capella University Communication and Conflict Resolution essay

Communication and Conflict Resolution

Introduction

Collaboration is a critical method that is used to not only manage differences among people working towards similar set objectives but also a sure way of completing a task that requires the input of various professionals. While the members of collaboration may have the best aims of creating one that is successful, creating one where the atmosphere of mutual respect and sharing the decision-making responsibilities is supported is an extremely challenging endeavor (Brown, White, & Leibbrandt, 2006).  However, all is not lost as there are methods that can be used to hold a partnership together even during the most difficult times.

For the Team Charter Recommendations:

Methods to Establish Ground Rules and Set Expectations for Interprofessional Team Collaboration

Using both the setting of the ground rules and a consensus framework, the partnership is likely to set off in the most harmonious way. Ground rules refer to the guidelines that are set by the members of the group and all agree to follow (Weller, Boyd, & Cumin, 2014). During the meeting of coming up with the ground rules, we shall outline the procedures the process will follow, how the decisions will be made, and how information will be shared (Fewster-Thuente,2015). As the facilitator, I will explain the purpose of the ground rules and allow the members to discuss them. I would have drafted some rules to be followed in the first meeting and will ask the members to go through them and ask them to remove some and add any others that may be suitable for the running of the group. The following are some of the ground rules:

• Always be on time and be prepared for meetings
• While being candid, always be respectful
• There will be shared decision making
• All ideas count
• Everybody participates
• We have a shared responsibility for adhering to the rules

It should be noted that people have different personalities, experiences and expectations and this is likely to affect the running of the group. High performing teams are those that recognize their collective responsibilities and where they need to develop. Individuals in the team have objectives to contribute to the team and create the team winning mentality. However, occasionally, team members expect so much from the others because of their experiences and personalities which will derail the performance (Peeters, Van Tuijl, Rutte & Reymen, 2006).

Conflict Resolution Strategies for Interprofessional Teams

Conflict is natural to interprofessional teams and we need to develop strategies that will help us to work harmoniously for the next six months. The first strategy that we shall adopt is setting the scene by promoting decent relationships, encouraging mutual respect and courtesy, keeping the problem separate from the person, and discussing the real issues as well as keeping an open mind in exploring all options (Hood, 2014). We shall then gather as much information to understand the underlying needs of an individual, concerns, and perspectives. The next strategy is ensuring that everyone agrees to what the problem is. To avoid individual goals, we shall come to a mutually agreeable beneficial solution (Fewster-Thuente, 2015).The next strategy is to brainstorm on the possible solutions to the problem. We shall be open to all ideas and input from all group members will be considered. Finally, we will negotiate a solution and return to normalcy.

Addressing Issues of Leadership in a Collaboration

Leadership in interprofessional partnerships is a critical aspect for the successful running of the team and meeting the objectives. While the members take shared decision-making responsibility, there must be a leader among equals to bring together the various aspects to ensure the smooth running of the team. The leader in such a case should be skilled and strong-willed in identifying the best practices to help the collaboration avoid conflicts and focus on the objectives of the group (Weller et al., 2014). The leaders must be in a position to adapt to the changes in the health care provision and have a strong character to help the team members build the partnership. Possession of the necessary leadership and communication skills are crucial requirements for leading a partnership. The leader must set the tone by developing and adhering to standards of behavior that will support the previously agreed upon code of conduct.

In the event that the team leader is ineffective, the partnership will face serious problems that could threaten its existence. The success and indeed the continuity of a team greatly depend on the quality of leadership offered by the person at the helm of the partnership.

For the Communication and Collaboration Strategies:

Best Practices for Interprofessional Team Collaboration

Effective teams are built on the premise of having a common intent and purpose. The teams must be run on the basis of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration. The team members must focus on familiarity as opposed to formality and watch out for each other to ensure that mistakes are avoided (Weller et al., 2014). Without the above aspects being upheld, the team is likely to make mistakes that will affect the outcomes and safety of the patients. Having a strategy that is based on effective communication will help solve the potential conflicts and ensure the smooth running of the collaboration (Hood, 2014). Exchange of information, appreciation, and respect of roles assigned to individuals within the team and taking accountability for the successes and failures are critical in patient safety and positive outcomes.

Effective collaboration can be supported by use of various forms of technology. Most critical is the technology that enhances efficient communication and sharing of information among the group members. By use of tools like emailing, text messaging, and mobile phone to call, information can be shared easily (Hood, 2014). Other types of technology that can be used include video conferencing, teleconferencing, and social media platforms to exchange various types of messages and information.

The Benefits and Limitations of Different Forms of Communication for an Interprofessional Team

Communication will make use of various platforms including email, text, voicemail, and face-face. These forms have their own benefits and limitations. First, using email, text, and voice all enable remote communication when some members are out of the work station or have been sent to a distance workstation (Hood, 2014). Besides, these platforms are the official communication techniques and leave a trail of evidence of the communication among the team members. The only undoing thing is that they may not be effective when the response is needed urgently. Technology can sometimes fail and the message may reach the party when it is no longer relevant.

Face-face communication, on the other hand, eliminates the challenge posed by the technology as the response is immediate. The parties communicating are able to observe more telling signs on the effectiveness of communication and any signs that something is not right and hence solve it (Weller et al., 2014). However, it is not an official communication strategy and does not leave hard evidence of what was discussed.

Conclusion

Creating and maintaining an interprofessional team is a challenging exercise, but by adopting the right strategies, the challenges can be overcome. Setting the ground rules and a proper code of conduct, establishing the best conflict resolution strategies, and having an effective leadership are necessary for the success of the collaboration. By ensuring that the best practices for running a team through considering mutual respect, effective communication and trust, any challenges facing the partnership is likely to be resolved. Most significantly, the members of a partnership should embrace the use of various forms of communication to ensure proper and timely exchange of information to positively impact patient outcomes.