Teams operating separately from the broader organizational structure, often with limited interaction with other departments or colleagues, can be characterized by distinct communication patterns, workflows, and even cultures. For example, a small research and development team working on a long-term project in a separate facility might experience this separation. Such separation can arise from geographical distance, specialized project requirements, or organizational restructuring.
Such distinct teams can foster deep focus and collaboration within the unit, potentially leading to innovation and specialized expertise. Historically, certain industries, such as scientific research or highly technical fields, have relied on this type of focused team structure to achieve breakthroughs. However, a lack of integration with the larger organization carries potential risks, including knowledge silos, communication breakdowns, and difficulty aligning with overall company strategy.