Developing Effective Virtual Team Communication in the Case Company

Abstract

Virtual teams are increasingly used by companies, their popularity is growing. Virtual work is no longer a gloomy future vision. The COVID-19 epidemic has expedited the transition of businesses to remote work, and the fact is that many workers prefer flexibility. Yet, one of the most difficult aspects of remote employment is effective communication. This thesis focused on developing a proposal for making the communication for global virtual teams more effective.

The study was carried out using an Applied action research methodology. The research design consisted of five phases, and data was gathered in three rounds. By evaluating internal records and holding meetings and workshops with the stakeholders, the first set of data for the current state study was collected. The second round includes internal meetings, discussions, and workshops for the Proposal building. Finally, a group interview was organized in the third round of data collection to validate the initial proposal.

There were several steps in the proposal's creation. As the first step, the factors that contribute to successful virtual team development were examined. Second, the idea was updated to promote good methods of communication and information use. Third, the proposal suggested analyzing and expanding technical expertise of virtual communication tools.

This thesis concludes with a recommendation for enhancing virtual team communication among the global teams of the case company. Successful communication is the focus of the plan, which focuses on three primary areas: building trust and team bonding, improving communication practices and information use, and expanding technical expertise and the effective use of virtual communication technologies. The outcome of this thesis will assist the case company in managing virtual teams more efficiently and thus should eventually help to improve the quality of services provided by the case company.