Teams and flexible work schedules are both being implemented more frequently in modern corporations. Discuss two types of teams and two types of flexible work schedules that firms use to increase employee productivity and satisfaction

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Answer: Summary of suggested answer -
Teams:
• Self-managed — assume self-direction, assume management duties, etc. Part of TQM programs. Often affects organizational structure in order to implement. Employees need training in three types of skills: technical, administrative, and interpersonal.
• Problem-solving team — quality circles, etc. Consist of volunteers, doesn't affect organizational structure.
• Special project team — complex projects, cross-functional lines. May be part of QWL projects, etc.
• Virtual teams — often have the same characteristics as problem-solving teams, but their means of communication and interaction is done by Internet or other technology, especially when the members are spread out in various areas.
Flexible work schedules: Flexible work hours divide schedules into core time and flextime. Compressed workweeks alter the number of workdays per week by increasing the length of the workday to 10 or more hours. Telecommuting allows employees to work from home full time or part time.