Katzenbach and Smith (1996) defined a team as a small number of people with complementary skills who are committed to a common purpose, performance goals and approach for which they hold themselves mutually accountable’. Later on, Salas, Reyes & McDaniel (2018) defined a team as a collection of two or more individuals who interact dynamically, adaptively, and interdependently toward a common and valued goal, with each member having specific roles or functions to perform.
These definitions imply interaction, coordination and interdependence among the individuals. Within the framework of organizational ergonomics, team members are encouraged to continuously exchange information, clarify tasks, provide feedback, and coordinate activities in order to harmonize work proceess, avoid misunderstandings as well as misinterpretations, and prevent errors and cognitive overload.
The Model of Communication diagram explains that communication begins when a sender creates an idea and encodes it into a message. The message is sent through a channel or medium (such as speech, email, or media). During transmission, noise (misperception, misinterpretation etc) may interfere with the message. The receiver decodes the message to understand it and then provides feedback, completing the communication process. A clear information flow and feedback helps to identify ergonomic issues, reduce stressors, and create healthier work places, featured with psychological safety.
“Great teamwork is built not just on shared goals, but on clear, respectful communication—because when every voice is heard, the team’s strength becomes unstoppable.”
Please visualize and place yourself in situations where your voices, insights and opinions are being respected and appreciated. How do you feel?
The quote captures the significance of team members’ connection through excellent communication. People do not just work together; they connect respectfully to each other in delivering their insights, ideas and voice of thoughts towards tasks and goals completion for their team. In other words, the utilization of inclusive approach in the process of team communication is well celebrated in the perspective of organizational ergonomics, to alleviate the sense of alienation among employees. The normalization of inclusive culture, where no one is being left behind, is crucial.
Alienation among employees can even be more challenging for virtual teams, and work from home employees. In the chain of tasks demands and deliveries, alienation is a huge risk. Hence, the art of organizational ergonomics for effective communication is a valuable knowledge and skills to be acquired.
“The art of effective teamwork lies in clear communication—without it, even the best strategies fall apart.”
Clear communication ensures that everyone understands their roles, responsibilities, and goals. When team members communicate openly, misunderstandings are minimized, tasks are coordinated smoothly, and collaboration becomes more productive. This clarity helps teams work efficiently and align their efforts toward achieving common objectives.
Always remember that even simple misunderstanding, misperception and misinterpretation can lead to conflicts, inaccurate decisions and distort performance within a team. Even well-planned strategies may fail if instructions are unclear or if team members do not exchange information effectively. Therefore, maintaining transparent and consistent communication strengthens trust, improves coordination, and ultimately supports the team’s success.
“Feedback is the breakfast of champions.” – Ken Blanchard
In the context of organizational ergonomics and well-being of employees, feedback nourishes growth and excellence. Excellent communication is not complete without feedback as it ensures the sender knows that their message was understood or not. Getting honest, positive, constructive and respectful feedback shows that people are listening and valuing each other’s input. Such environment drives improvement, motivates effort, and correct wrong measures.
Nevertheless, feedbacks may also be negative, demotivating and intrigue an environment of low psychological safety. It could be avoided by learning and embracing the art of effective, diplomatic communication.
It is also important to understand that feedbacks work both ways, from sender and receiver. The sender can become the receiver when a response is given, making communication a continuous and interactive process. In such manner, feedback saves and prevents employees at all levels (top, middle management, executive and non-executive) from misperceptions and misunderstandings.
Ultimately, organizations that prioritize clear, open, and respectful communication are better positioned to enhance teamwork, maintain employee well-being, and achieve sustainable performance.
Associate Prof.Dr. Nor Wahiza binti Abdul Wahat
Head, Organizational Ergonomics and Well-Being SIG, HFEM
Upcoming Training:
For further information and elaboration of this topic, you are most welcomed to attend HFEM Academy’s Training on ‘ Strengthening Communication and Feedback Loops in Physical and Virtual Teams’ on April 15th 2026.
HFEM Newsletter (March 2026) | Page 3
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