Many of the elements that constitute successful face-to-face teams are also necessary for successful virtual teams. The key factors of success include:
- High levels of trust.
- Clear communication.
- Strong leadership.
- Appropriate levels of technology.
Nevertheless, virtual teams face certain obstacles, which can hinder high-level performance. Such barriers to success include:
- Multiple time zones.
- Language.
- Different approaches to conflict resolution.
The failure or breakdown of trust, communication, leadership and technology in virtual teams can have severe consequences for MNEs.