Bernard Osahon Odiase
Department of Business Administration,
Faculty of Management Sciences,
University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
For correspondence, email: osasben04@gmail.com
Abstract
Teamwork remains a central construct in contemporary organisational scholarship; however, many existing models emphasise relational cohesion or behavioural interaction while giving comparatively less attention to the structural, rational and epistemic foundations of collective performance. Addressing this gap, this paper introduces the Odiase Teamwork Framework as a conceptual model for understanding organised and knowledge-oriented collaboration in organisational settings. Drawing on literature from organisational learning, knowledge-based theory of the firm, dynamic capabilities and team effectiveness research, the framework conceptualises teamwork as a structured system in which coordinated roles, procedural alignment and shared knowledge resources influence collective outcomes. Structurally, the framework differs from many established teamwork models by explicitly integrating organisational structure, knowledge management processes and evidence-informed decision mechanisms into the architecture of team functioning. It outlines eight interconnected dimensions that emphasise role clarity, task coordination, information sharing, learning integration and accountability mechanisms within teams. Rather than focusing primarily on interpersonal cohesion or psychological dynamics, the model positions teamwork as an institutionalised process embedded within organisational routines and knowledge systems. The paper situates the framework in relation to existing teamwork literature and discusses its possible relevance across organisational leadership, educational management, public service delivery and small and medium-sized enterprises. In addition, directions for future research are proposed, including empirical validation, measurement scale development and comparative studies across organisational contexts. The framework therefore offers a conceptual perspective that links collaboration with organisational structure and knowledge integration, contributing to ongoing discussions on how teams function in complex institutional environments.
Keywords: Teamwork, Organisational learning, Knowledge integration, Evidence-based management, Dynamic capabilities