Which practice characterizes the best teams, according to the material?

• A. Stabilize performance to minimize risk
• B. Rely on external benchmarks to drive improvement
• C. Constantly look to improve; add capability; push the standards higher
• D. Focus only on meeting minimums

Answer: (C)

Relentless improvement and raising capability are hallmarks of the best teams. When a team continually seeks to improve, it builds new skills, updates processes, and raises performance standards, creating a culture where excellence is expected and owned by everyone. This reflects true ownership: the team doesn’t wait for conditions to align or for praise; it actively enhances its capacity to meet bigger challenges, which in turn reduces risk by closing gaps faster and preventing complacency. The focus is on growing capability over time so performance doesn’t plateau.

Stabilizing performance to minimize risk can feel prudent, but it often hides weaknesses and slows growth. Relying on external benchmarks can help set targets, yet without internal drive they may not translate into sustained action. Focusing only on meeting minimums guarantees mediocrity and misses opportunities to elevate the team’s effectiveness.