Running head: VIRTUAL TEAMS

Virtual Teams: Selection and Assessment of Team Members

Stephen M. Urquhart

Webster University

Author Note

Presented to Dr. James S. Herndon, Ph.D., Ed.D.

In partial fulfillment of HRDV 5750, Research and Assessment Methods

Summer, 2010
 VIRTUAL TEAMS
ii

Abstract

Based on a comprehensive review of published material related to the topic, it appears that while

companies around the world are increasingly relying on virtual teams to meet business demands,

current methods for selecting and assigning members to virtual teams are insufficient; this

research paper explores assessment tools that can help to improve this process. The paper

includes a review of current literature spanning theoretical, empirical and practical research of

virtual teams. Four key areas of research are covered: the virtual team environment; critical

success factors in a virtual team; individual behaviors and success factors; and current practices

for vetting and assigning virtual team members. Finally, a research approach is proposed to build

on the currently defined success factors, measured in the context of how they would be applied

in a virtual team setting. Ultimately, the recommended research will identify the most likely

predictors of success to aid in the selection and assignment of employees and other members to a

virtual team.

.
 VIRTUAL TEAMS
iii

Table of Contents

Abstract............................................................................................................ii
Table of Contents............................................................................................iii