Team Charter
A written agreement created by the team that outlines shared values, working norms, and ground rules, and clearly sets expectations for acceptable conduct among project team members.
Key Points
- Captures team values, norms, ground rules, and behavioral expectations.
- Often includes decision-making methods, conflict resolution steps, and escalation paths.
- Co-created early by the team and approved by key stakeholders to build buy-in.
- Used as a living reference to guide day-to-day interactions and updated as needed.
Example
At the kickoff of a software project, the team drafts a charter stating values like transparency and respect, rules such as daily standups at 9:00 AM, code reviews before merges, decision-making by consensus with a tie-break by the tech lead, and a two-step conflict resolution process. The document is shared with all members and revisited during retrospectives.
PMP Example Question
Which project artifact primarily defines team values, working agreements, and acceptable behavior guidelines?
- Team charter
- Project charter
- Stakeholder engagement plan
- RACI matrix
Correct Answer: A - Team charter
Explanation: The team charter documents the team's values, agreements, operating guidelines, and behavior expectations. The project charter authorizes the project; the stakeholder plan addresses stakeholder strategies; the RACI clarifies roles and responsibilities.
