Highly productive teams are composed of “T-shaped” producers: individuals who are multi-disciplinary in their mindset and skills, but who go deep in one particular area. Depth of expertise is extremely valuable to the team, but it shouldn’t hinder collaboration with peers. By sharing elements of one’s own craft with the team, overall productivity is increased.
The sharing of one’s craft is an act of transparency that breeds trust. It often happens when describing a task to the team—and breaking it down. When individual producers describe in detail what it takes to get something done, they open the door to better teamwork through learning and helping.
The sharing of one’s craft gives rise to teams—and companies—who learn, adapt and create.