Effectiveness of teamwork in a petrochemical industry in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Abstract

Abstract Globalisation has inherently changed the dynamics of the business environment. Organisations are now driven strongly by information and technology, requiring them to be innovative, effective and efficient in order to sustain profit and growth (Jones and George, 2011). Natcos is the crude oil supply point to the Natref crude oil refinery. Due to Natcos being geographically distanced from Natref, it requires that the team be versatile to handle many disciplines. As such this requires good team work amongst the team members to execute the Natcos strategic objectives. The focus of this study is to determine how to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Natcos team and hence Natref. A quantitative research approach was adopted with a descriptive research method. The research was conducted within a non-contrived environment using a cross-sectional time horizon. The data collecting method employed was a survey method through the administration of a questionnaire to the Natcos team consisting of 47 participants, the entire population. The study has identified the team development phase that the Natcos team is in as well as the team attributes for an effective team that are required by the Natcos team to become effective and efficient. The recommendations of the study have highlighted the areas of teamwork that the Natcos team needs to improve upon in order to become an effective co-ordinated unit that will make the business sustainable and profitable.