How do self-managed work teams differ from advisory teams?

Self-managed work teams are characterized by their ability to take initiative and make decisions related to their work processes, including actively identifying and resolving problems. Unlike advisory teams, which are typically formed to provide recommendations to management or other teams without authority to implement solutions, self-managed work teams have the autonomy to not only analyze issues but also take direct action to address them. This active problem-solving capacity allows self-managed teams to adapt and respond more effectively to challenges within their work environment.

The distinction lies in the degree of responsibility and authority: self-managed teams are empowered to implement solutions and make decisions, while advisory teams primarily provide suggestions that others must act upon. This hands-on approach is essential for innovation and efficiency, as it enables team members to leverage their knowledge and expertise to create practical solutions directly, leading to improved performance and morale. Thus, self-managed work teams fulfill a more dynamic role in organizational problem-solving compared to the more passive, recommendation-based approach of advisory teams.