How to Create a High-Performing Team with Cognitive Diversity – Ep 081

In this episode, we talk to Matthew J. Niermann, P.E., M.ASCE, Vice President at Schnabel, about the fascinating realm of cognitive diversity and its profound impact on teamwork within the engineering industry. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Matthew: What is the relationship between cognitive diversity and team dynamics? What experiences or insights sparked your interest in cognitive diversity and its impact on team performance? Did you actively seek out and find information on cognitive diversity, ask for approval, and pursue it on your own, or did someone suggest exploring this area due to your existing interest in diversity? Is there a measurable or descriptive way to assess cognitive diversity within a team? Does cognitive diversity, specifically the aspects of cognitive resources, cognitive effect, and cognitive effect, remain constant over time, or is it subject to change and evolution throughout an individual's life? How does cognitive diversity contribute to cultivating effective teamwork within engineering and construction projects? What are the potential trade-offs or challenges that may arise while working with a cognitively diverse team, and how can these challenges be effectively addressed to ensure smooth collaboration? How can teams optimize the benefits of cognitive diversity and mitigate conflicts or communication gaps through practical solutions and strategies? What specific techniques and practices have been implemented within the organization to encourage cognitive diversity and promote enhanced teamwork? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Creating a High-Performing Team with Cognitive Diversity: Cognitive diversity is about differences in thinking, attitudes, and values among team members. Success depends on managing these differences effectively, as they can lead to either a thriving team or potential obstacles. Matt's interest in cognitive diversity arose from exposure to Dr. Michael Curtin's adaptation innovation theory during a class at Virginia Tech. The organization's culture encourages exploration and flexibility, enabling a thorough examination of cognitive diversity's relevance in team dynamics. Engineers can become aware of cognitive diversity by actively seeking out educational opportunities focused on the subject and being open to exploring diverse perspectives. Understanding cognitive diversity within a team involves examining individuals' cognitive schemas, which consist of cognitive resources (knowledge and experiences), cognitive affect (needs, values, attitudes, and beliefs), and cognitive effect (intellectual level and problem-solving style), enabling effective management and utilization of their collective strengths and perspectives. Cognitive diversity evolves as cognitive resources expand through learning and experiences. Cognitive effects may change and adapt, while aspects like intellectual level and problem-solving style remain constant. Effective teamwork in engineering and construction projects is achieved through diverse teams that bring together individuals with varying thinking styles, approaches, and life experiences, enhancing problem-solving capabilities and leading to optimal or near-optimal solutions. Working with a diverse team can lead to challenges and conflicts due to different perspectives. Effective leadership, understanding of cognitive diversity, and the concept of withholding diversity when necessary are essential for smooth collaboration and successful problem-solving. A crucial truth for effective teamwork and reduced conflict within a diverse team is ensuring that each member feels valued and knows their unique and impo...