Key Characteristic #4: Adaptability & Problem-Solving
In today’s fast-changing workplaces, teams must be able to adapt to challenges and solve problems effectively. A high-functioning team is not one that avoids difficulties, but one that faces them with flexibility, creativity, and a willingness to learn. Adaptability is especially important in professional settings where priorities shift, unexpected obstacles arise, and teams must adjust their strategies to stay on track.
What Does an Adaptable Team Look Like?
An adaptable team:
Responds to change with curiosity rather than resistance.
Sees challenges as opportunities for growth.
Adjusts strategies when needed instead of rigidly sticking to outdated plans.
Supports team members during transitions, helping each other navigate uncertainty.
Research shows that adaptability is a key predictor of long-term team success. Teams that embrace change rather than resist it tend to be more innovative, resilient, and productive (Pulakos, Dorsey, & White, 2006). A study by Dweck (2006) also found that teams with a “growth mindset”—where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures—perform better and develop stronger problem-solving skills over time.
The Role of Goodwill in Problem-Solving
Like communication and accountability, problem-solving must be rooted in goodwill—a desire to help each other succeed, rather than blame or compete. Dysfunctional teams approach problems with defensiveness and self-preservation, while high-functioning teams see problem-solving as a collaborative effort where all voices are valued.
Goodwill-based problem-solving means:
Focusing on solutions instead of assigning blame.
Making sure all team members feel safe to propose ideas.
Offering help and flexibility when someone is struggling.
How Teams Can Strengthen Adaptability & Problem-Solving
Encourage a Learning Mindset
When challenges arise, shift from “Who’s responsible for this problem?” to “What can we learn from this?”
Research shows that teams with a continuous learning mindset are better at problem-solving and adapting to new situations (Edmondson, 2019).
Stay Flexible with Goals and Strategies
While having clear goals is important, rigid thinking can hurt teams. Successful teams adjust their approach when needed rather than forcing a failing strategy (Heifetz, Grashow, & Linsky, 2009).
Foster Psychological Safety During Problem-Solving
Team members should feel safe to voice concerns, ask questions, and propose solutions without fear of judgment.
Example: If a teacher tries a new instructional method and it doesn’t work, their team should support adjustments rather than criticize the failure.
Work Together to Solve Problems, Not Alone
Teams that approach problems collectively rather than as isolated individuals find better solutions and build stronger relationships (Salas, Sims, & Burke, 2005).
Instead of a teammate saying, “This isn’t working, but that’s not my problem,” a supportive approach would be, “Let’s find a way to make this work together.”
Example: Adaptability & Problem-Solving in an Educational Context
Imagine a team of educators implementing a new digital learning tool for students. After a few weeks, they notice that some students struggle with the technology and engagement is lower than expected.
In a high-functioning team, members do not blame each other or abandon the project. Instead, they work together to adjust their approach, perhaps by offering additional training for students or modifying lesson plans. They see the challenge as an opportunity to improve rather than a failure.
In contrast, in a dysfunctional team, individuals may resist change, blame each other, or dismiss the problem altogether, leading to frustration and disengagement.
Why Adaptability & Problem-Solving Matter
Organizations with adaptable teams handle challenges more effectively, foster innovation, and maintain stronger morale (Burke et al., 2006). In contrast, rigid teams that resist change often struggle with stagnation and conflict.
By fostering a mindset of goodwill, curiosity, and shared responsibility, teams can embrace challenges, strengthen collaboration, and drive long-term success.