Cross functional working, also known as cross-team or cross-disciplinary working, is a collaborative approach to problem-solving and project delivery where members from different departments or functions within an organization come together to share their expertise and resources. This approach is becoming increasingly popular in today's fast-paced and complex business environment, as it enables organizations to achieve better outcomes, innovate more effectively, and stay ahead of the competition. In this article, we will explore the benefits and challenges of cross functional working, as well as provide real-life examples of how this approach has been successful in various industries.

Benefits of Cross Functional Working

1. Improved problem-solving and decision-making: By bringing together individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives, cross functional working encourages a more holistic and inclusive approach to problem-solving. This can lead to more informed decisions and better-rounded solutions.

2. Enhanced innovation: Cross functional working fosters innovation by fostering a culture of collaboration and sharing ideas. This can lead to the development of new products, services, or business models that may not have been possible within the confines of a single department or function.

3. Improved project delivery: By uniting team members with diverse skills and knowledge, cross functional working can lead to more efficient and effective project delivery. This can help organizations meet deadlines, budget, and quality expectations more successfully.

4. Strengthened employee engagement and motivation: When team members from different departments or functions work together, they often discover common goals and values that can foster a sense of belonging and motivation. This can lead to higher employee engagement and lower turnover rates.

5. Greater adaptability and resilience: Cross functional working helps organizations become more adaptable and resilient to change, as team members can more easily transition between projects and functions. This can be particularly important in today's fast-changing business environment.

Challenges of Cross Functional Working

1. Communication and collaboration barriers: Working across departments or functions can often lead to communication and collaboration barriers, particularly if team members have different working languages, cultural backgrounds, or communication styles. It is essential for cross functional working teams to invest in effective communication and collaboration tools and techniques.

2. Negative perceptions and resistance: Some employees may have negative perceptions of cross functional working, believing it to be a source of confusion or a barrier to efficiency. It is crucial for organizations to promote the benefits of cross functional working and to provide the necessary support and guidance for team members to successfully adapt to this new way of working.

3. Hierarchical structures and power dynamics: Cross functional working can be challenging in hierarchical structures where power and authority are centralized. It is essential for organizations to embrace more horizontal and decentralized power structures to facilitate effective cross functional working.

4. Timing and resource management: Ensuring that cross functional working projects are completed on time and within budget can be challenging, particularly when team members must adapt to new tasks and responsibilities. It is crucial for organizations to allocate sufficient resources and support to cross functional working projects to ensure their success.

Real-Life Examples of Cross Functional Working

1. IBM: IBM has successfully implemented cross functional working across its various business units and functions. The company has created cross functional teams, known as "smart centers," to address complex business challenges and drive innovation. These teams bring together experts from various departments, such as marketing, sales, R&D, and finance, to work together on specific projects.

2. Google: Google has adopted a horizontal structure, with team members from various departments and functions working together on various projects. This approach has enabled Google to innovate rapidly, lead the digital advertising industry, and shape the future of technology.

3. Tesla: Tesla has implemented a cross functional working approach to develop and produce its electric vehicles. By bringing together team members from various departments, such as design, engineering, and production, Tesla has been able to innovate quickly and bring new products to market more efficiently.

Cross functional working is a powerful approach to problem-solving and project delivery that can lead to improved innovation, better project delivery, and greater employee engagement. However, it is essential for organizations to overcome the challenges associated with this approach, such as communication and collaboration barriers, negative perceptions, and hierarchical structures. By embracing cross functional working and providing the necessary support and guidance, organizations can unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and success in today's complex business environment.