New Online coaching tool set to boost team performance

The Team Coaching System (TCS), launched today by coaching specialists Apian (www.apian.co.uk), allows teams to evaluate their performance quickly and simply on an individual and group basis.

The result of this self-directed coaching process is, quite frankly, better business performance.

Apian, the company formed by former management consultant David Tinker, has developed the TCS as an enhancement to its own coaching services. The objective is to sell the system to large companies directly (Vodafone is already trialling it), as well as indirectly through channel partners such as training and development consultancies.

Using the Team Tracker (part of the TCS), teams log onto the Apian web site weekly and answer a series of questions concerning direction, morale, spirit and productivity, a process that should take no more than a minute. The team is guided through a step-by-step on-line coaching system. As they enter information onto their site so they develop data scores on which to base discussions that lead to better performance.

Said David Tinker, Apianís Director: ìWe developed TCS because we could see that businesses often concentrate on a short sharp one-day hit of team building ñ and expect things to miraculously change.î

But he added: ìThey then feel the disappointment and frustration when very little impact is seen back at work. A longer term coaching process gives them the chance to work out how to tap into a teamís full potential, move away from old limiting habits, and really enhance performance. Plus they will see a return on their investment of time and money.

ìThe TCS enables the team to monitor its overall dynamics in the same way you might monitor the speed, oil and fuel in your car. A comprehensive ëresourcesí facility gives the team handouts, an up-to-date book list and web links on team, personal and organisational development.ì

Although the system is designed for team leaders an external coach can work with the team every step of the way throughout the four-month period. The coach at first guides the team on how to use the variety of online evaluation tools so that they can build up their personal profiles without the need to refer to a ëqualifiedí HR professional.

ìIt is our belief that a high percentage of team members will say they feel fine, or; okay; when really they are less than happy or focussed,î said Tinker. ìThe data provided by the Team Tracker enables a team to really challenge mediocrity and explore the realms of high performance.î

TCS also examines team psychometrics and profiles a team against characteristics of high performing teams.

TCS allows a team to be truly responsible for its own development - the Apian on-line system provides the tools for the team to grow and improve performance, but it is the team and team leader chosen by his/her colleagues who make the lasting difference.

The team leader is supported and coached throughout on continued use of these tools and the leadership skills needed to sustain team development. This means that the approach has a benefit that lasts well beyond the direct intervention of the coaching.