Career and Technical Education (CTE) Practice Exam

Which of the following is one advantage of using cross-functional teams for problem solving?

1. They have a long life span within an organization

2. Decisions can be simplified

3. The diversity can lead to better decisions

4. There will be clearly developed norms and standards

The correct answer is: The diversity can lead to better decisions

Using cross-functional teams for problem solving has numerous advantages, and one significant benefit is the diversity they bring, which can lead to better decision-making. When individuals from different functional areas, backgrounds, and experiences come together, they contribute a variety of perspectives and ideas. This diversity encourages creative thinking and innovation, allowing the team to explore a broader range of solutions to a problem. The inclusion of various viewpoints helps the team to identify gaps in knowledge, recognize potential challenges from different angles, and devise comprehensive strategies that might not have emerged in a more homogeneous group. Consequently, the collective intelligence of a diverse team tends to produce more effective, well-rounded decisions. This synergy among team members enhances problem-solving capabilities and can ultimately lead to better outcomes for projects and initiatives. While the other answer choices present characteristics that may be associated with teams in general, they do not specifically highlight how diversity fosters improved decision-making in cross-functional settings.