Which goal is crucial during the forming stage of group development?

During the forming stage of group development, establishing team norms and expectations is crucial. This initial phase involves team members getting to know each other and beginning to understand their roles within the group. Setting clear norms and expectations helps in creating a foundation for collaboration and interaction. When norms are articulated, it fosters an environment where members feel comfortable sharing ideas and expressing opinions, thereby helping to define the group's culture.

This initial clarity can reduce misunderstandings and facilitate smoother interactions as the team progresses to subsequent stages of development. By focusing on norms and expectations during the forming stage, teams can ensure that they move forward cohesively, with a shared understanding of how to work together effectively.

Focusing solely on team success metrics, achieving objectives, or resolving conflicts generally comes later in the development process. While they're all important aspects of effective teamwork, they are more relevant as the team moves into later stages such as norming or performing.