Overview
In project management, T-shaped and I-shaped individuals refer to team members with different skill sets and approaches to work. The concept of T-shaped and I-shaped individuals has its roots in the field of human resources and organizational management. It was popularized by Tim Brown, CEO of the design firm IDEO, and has been influential in various industries, especially those involving design and innovation.
T-Shaped Individuals
T-shaped individuals have a broad range of knowledge across various disciplines (the horizontal bar of the “T”) and deep expertise or specialization in a single area (the vertical bar of the “T”).
T-shaped individuals are valuable in project teams because they can collaborate effectively across different functions, understand diverse perspectives, and contribute specialized knowledge. This makes them versatile team members who can adapt to various roles and tasks within a project.
T-shaped individuals are also known as Generalized Specialists.
Example of T-Shaped Individual
Name: Sarah
- Specialized Skill: Software Development
- Broad Knowledge:
- Basic understanding of user experience (UX) design
- Knowledge of project management principles
- Familiarity with database management
I-Shaped Individuals
I-shaped individuals possess deep expertise and skills in a single area (the vertical bar of the “I”) but have limited knowledge outside of their specialty.
I-shaped individuals are essential in project teams for their in-depth knowledge and ability to solve complex problems within their area of expertise. However, they might be less flexible in roles that require cross-functional collaboration or broader skill sets.
Example of I-Shaped Individual
Name: Tom
- Specialized Skill: Software Development
- Limited Knowledge Outside Specialty:
- Focuses solely on coding and does not have experience in UX design, project management, or database management
Effective Project Teams
Effective project teams often require a mix of T-shaped and I-shaped individuals. T-shaped individuals enhance team collaboration and flexibility, while I-shaped individuals provide the necessary depth of knowledge in critical areas.
A balanced team with both types can address a wide range of project needs, ensuring that both broad strategic goals and specific technical details are effectively managed.