From Performance to Purpose: Building High-Value Teams

In an era defined by constant disruption, organizations are navigating a business landscape defined by rapid change, from technological disruption to shifting stakeholder expectations. While high-performing teams have long been celebrated for their ability to deliver results, a new paradigm is emerging with the rise of the high-value team. These teams consistently achieve goals while also driving outcomes that support long-term business strategy and strengthen stakeholder trust.  

Understanding the Distinction Between High Performing and High Value Teams

High-performing teams excel in achieving specific, often short-term, objectives. They are characterized by clear goals, defined roles, and efficient processes. These teams are adept at executing tasks and meeting targets, making them invaluable for operational success. 

However, high-value teams operate at another level. They not only deliver on performance metrics but also create sustainable value across the organization and beyond. These teams adopt a holistic approach, considering the broader impact of their actions on various stakeholders, including customers, employees, and the community. They are agile, innovative, and aligned with the organization’s long-term vision. In fact,  research by Gartner found that high-value teams that are aligned with organizational purpose and stakeholder needs experience a 20%-30% boost in productivity.

Key Characteristics of High-Value Teams

Building High-Value Teams 

Transitioning from a high-performing to a high-value team requires leadership alignment and strategic investment. Improving efficiency is important; however, evolving the way teams collaborate and deliver impact across the organization is what drives sustained success. This shift demands a focus on adaptability and long-term value creation. 

Fortunately, there are established frameworks to guide this shift. One such model is Peter Hawkins’ Five Disciplines of High Value-Creating Teams, which provides a blueprint for teams to deliver impact well beyond internal KPIs. The model includes:

Commissioning – Ensuring the team’s goals and purpose are clearly aligned with broader organizational priorities and external stakeholder needs.

Clarifying – Establishing clarity around roles, responsibilities, and shared expectations within the team to eliminate confusion and increase accountability.

Co-Creating – Building a team culture rooted in collaboration, where diverse perspectives are welcomed, and innovative problem-solving is encouraged.

Connecting – Actively engaging with external stakeholders to ensure the team’s work is relevant, responsive, and adds value beyond the boundaries of the team itself.

Core Learning – Embedding a culture of reflection and continuous learning to adapt, improve, and grow over time.

By applying these disciplines, organizations can foster a culture of performance  that is deeply integrated into the fabric of long-term business success. 

Although high-performing teams are essential for achieving immediate results, high-value teams are crucial for long-term success and resilience. Building them requires a shift in mindset: this is a marathon, not a sprint. Organizations that embrace adaptability, learning, and stakeholder connection will be best positioned for sustained success. Ready to evolve your team from high-performing to high-value? Let’s start the conversation.