Patterns & Metaphors
Workgroup
Template:
A group of about 15 people with a specifically assigned task. The particular issues that are handled by the group are identified and worked on relying on the interest, enthusiasm, ingenuity, and creativity of the members. The process of the workshop is usually structured in a logical progression that works towards the goal to be achieved.
[Advantages] The high level of involvement elicits a high level of responsibility from the group. The high level of responsibility creates a high level of relevance and appropriateness of the content for the members of the group. The short term nature of the assignment enables an intensive commitment to the task and its completion.
[Disadvantages] In a conference situation the various workshop groups can become isolated and disrelated from each other. Can be sterile and frustrating if they are overstructured and they can be confusing and wasteful if they are unplanned.
