The SmoothTeam simulation is a two-hour shared experience for the team. During the simulation, the team learns from each other and has fun. The simulation also provides a stimulus for further discussions and is a great way to kick off a Christmas party or similar event.

Krista Forsström from Vincit, Europe's Best Workplace, shares her experience of SmoothTeam:

If your (project) teams are starting to run out of pajamas with various silence-filled remote whispering attempts, draw-and-guess sessions, ten tons, wine tasting, remote this and that, then you should check out SmoothTeam's gamified team development opportunities. Even those who have worked together for a long time are guaranteed to learn something new about each other without a hint of tedium.

What does SmoothTeam require?

You need two hours of team time. Participants will also need a smartphone or computer. The discussion will take place live or remotely if you wish.

What kind of teams is SmoothTeam suitable for?

• We recommend a team size of 4-15 participants. Larger teams can be split into sections. 
• The team works together and knows each other at least to some extent.

Is the simulation casual or formal?

It depends a lot on the team. Each team discusses its own starting points and works with its own chemistry. In the same way, at a team dinner, some would naturally talk about work and others would share very personal things. SmoothTeam doesn't force, but it allows for deeper team discussion and sharing from the outside of the work role. There is also laughter in every simulation.

What if we're already tired of all the team building stuff and "know your colleague" tests?

SmoothTeam is popular in the software industry, for example, where a large number of people have tried a lot of different solutions and are tired of the fooling around, especially in the cyclo-hali spirit. SmoothTeam is a matter-of-fact way of talking about yourself and your colleagues, but with a naturally relaxed approach. We have a sceptic guarantee. You get your money back if the team doesn't like it.

What are the good things about SmoothTeam as a Christmas programme?

• You learn about each other and how others see you.
• It also provides a natural opportunity for a non-formal debate.
• It acts as a conversation starter and icebreaker, getting people to relax and open up in a positive way. 

Which teams are not suited to SmoothTeam or what are the risks involved?

• SmoothTeam works for almost all teams. If there is significant conflict, exclusion or bullying going on in the team, we recommend using other approaches such as mediation or counselling. 
• The team must have an interest in getting to know each other: the simulation is not suitable for introducing people from different parts of the organisation to each other, but for developing existing teams.

How do participants experience this?

You can read about one of the practical implementations and experiences at the Nordic Healthcare Group, in the same article you can also read more about the experiences of the participants.

Here are direct quotes from participants after the Christmas simulations:

• It was nice when nobody won, but everyone got the feeling that they got out of it and got to know the gang. Also, as a senior worker, you got perspective and ideas and got to know others in a new way.
• It was really great. 
• A warm wonderful breeze from the remote room, you could talk with colleagues in great conversations.
• It was nice to get everyone to think and talk a bit. 

For an article on the same event, including the experiences of subscribers and the changes brought about by the simulation, click here.

How can I use SmoothTeam in practice?

• First, take a look at the different simulations. The simulation most suitable for a typical Christmas party is usually Team Strengths.
• Option 1: order an e-tool and use it with your team. Allow yourself half an hour before the simulation to familiarise yourself, your team does not need to prepare.
• Option 2: Subscribe to SmoothTeam with a facilitator.

If you're wondering how the simulation can work for your team, get in touch and let's talk more! aleksis.nokso-koivisto (at-sign) smoothteam.net or +358 (0)45 114 3554.