Define conflict in the workplace.

Here's an example of how a procurement team might pass through the four stages of team development:

• Forming: A new procurement team is assembled to source a critical IT system. Members are introduced, polite, and focus on understanding the project scope and their individual roles.
• Storming: As the team begins to evaluate potential vendors and define requirements, disagreements arise. The IT specialist pushes for advanced features, while the finance member prioritizes budget constraints, leading to conflicts over specifications and supplier selection criteria.
• Norming: The team establishes clear communication channels and decision-making processes. They agree on a balanced approach to vendor evaluation, respecting each other's expertise and finding common ground on priorities.
• Performing: The team works cohesively and efficiently. They successfully negotiate a contract with a suitable vendor that meets both technical needs and budgetary limits, delivering the project on time and within scope.