The team's climate and the members' feeling about the climate are, to a considerable extent, influenced by the extent to which members are involved in discussions and decisions. When members sense that their expertise, opinions and ideas are valued, they are more likely to have positive feelings about the team.

When members are satisfied, the climate is a contributing factor in team success. In addition, when members actively participate in discussions and decisions, the team is making effective use of all of its resources. There are two sides of the participation equation:

1.  Active involvement initiated by team members because they feel free to “speak up.”

2.  Active facilitation by the leader and others seeking the input of team members.