Question

Virtual teams, comprised of people who work together through the use of e-mail and other communication technologies to complete a task while in separate locations, are becoming more commonplace for working with international colleagues. Virtual teams have a number of advan- tages, including elimination of travel time and elimination of such negative behaviors as team members who are late, interrupt, and talk inces- santly. An added advantage is that members from different cultures are often more comfortable expressing themselves in writing than in speaking. However, there are a number of disadvantages, especially when people from different cultures are involved. What are some of the concerns, issues, or disadvantages of a virtual team that communi- cates primarily via e-mail and that is composed of members from China, France, Mexico, and the United States?

Answer 1