Perceived training needs for effective virtual teams: An exploratory study

The aim of this exploratory study was to identify the training needs of virtual team members and consequently the role of the HR function in supporting them. We investigated three main aspects: the needs, challenges and benefits associated with the early stages of virtual team membership; the factors likely to influence the effectiveness of virtual teams, with a specific focus on training requirements; the role of the HR function in helping virtual teams to develop the knowledge and skills they require to be effective. Specifically, our research questions were: What are the perceived needs, challenges and benefits experienced in the early stages of virtual collaboration? What training needs are perceived by virtual team members? How can the HR function contribute to making virtual teams more effective? We adopted a qualitative approach based on a model developed by Bal and Gundry, conducting interviews with five members of virtual teams at Nielsen TAM Italy. We present the results and suggest directions for future research.