Bayer Employs Scott M. Graffius' Intellectual Property

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com

Bayer Employs Scott M Graffius' Intellectual Property - LwRes



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Scott M. Graffius' work on team development continues to make an impact, now being utilized by Bayer alongside esteemed organizations like Cisco, IEEE, Johns Hopkins University, Microsoft, Oracle, UC San Diego, Yale University, and many others around the world.

Scott M. Graffius' Intellectual Property on Team Development


Informed by the research of Bruce W. Tuckman and Mary Ann C. Jensen, over 100 subsequent studies, and Scott M. Graffius' first-hand professional experience with, and analysis of, team leadership and performance, Graffius created his ‘Phases of Team Development’ as a unique perspective and visual conveying the five phases of team development — Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning — inclusive of a graph showing how performance varies by phase, as well as the characteristics and strategies for each phase.

Graffius' intellectual property (IP) is registered with the United States Copyright Office.

Graffius initially developed his ‘Phases of Team Development’ unique material in 2008, and he periodically refreshes it.

For reference, the visual for the current (2024) edition is below and the details are
here.

scott-m-graffius---phases-of-team-development---2024-update---v24010507---jpg-lwres

Organizations around the world engage Graffius to deliver compelling talks and workshops. To date, he's presented sessions at 91 conferences and other events across 25 countries: Armenia, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Ireland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Scott M Graffius has delivered 91 talks and workshops across 25 countries - passport style - LwRes

Graffius ‘Phases of Team Development’ IP is central and key to many of those sessions. His rate card and a listing of his engagements are at
https://scottgraffius.com/resources/Exceptional-PPM-and-PMO-Solutions-Rate-Card-for-2024-2025-v24071607.pdf and https://scottgraffius.com/publicspeaker.html, respectively.

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Graffius' 'Phases of Team Development' Intellectual Property Is Used By Organizations Around The World — And Bayer Was Added To The List

With an authorization/license from Graffius, his ‘Phases of Team Development’ IP is featured and used by businesses, professional associations, government agencies, and universities around the globe. Examples include:

  • Adobe,
  • American Management Association,
  • Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute,
  • Boston University,
  • Broadcom,
  • Cisco,
  • Deimos Aerospace,
  • DevOps Institute,
  • Erste Group Bank AG (Austria),
  • FINAT,
  • Ford Motor Company,
  • FSU College of Medicine,
  • Hasso Plattner Institute,
  • IEEE,
  • James Madison University,
  • Johns Hopkins University,
  • LeadingEng,
  • London South Bank University,
  • Manufacturers Alliance,
  • Microsoft,
  • New Zealand Government,
  • Oracle,
  • Royal Australasian College of Physicians,
  • TBS Switzerland,
  • Torrens University Australia,
  • Tufts University,
  • U.S. National Park Service,
  • U.S. Tennis Association,
  • UC San Diego,
  • UK Sports Institute,
  • University of Galway Ireland,
  • Victorian Institute of Technology (Australia),
  • Virginia Tech,
  • Warsaw University,
  • Western Sydney University,
  • World Resources Institute,
  • Yale University,
  • ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences,
  • and many others.

Bayer — one of the largest pharmaceuticals, biomedical, and biotechnology companies in the world — was added to the list.

The following visuals show the request from Bayer and license granted by Scott M. Graffius to Bayer. Personal, sensitive, or confidential information was redacted.

Here's excerpt 1 of 5.

Bayer Employs Scott M Graffius' Intellectual Property - Exhibit - 1 - LwRes

Excerpt 2 of 5 is next.

Bayer Employs Scott M Graffius' Intellectual Property - Exhibit - 2 - LwRes

Here's excerpt 3 of 5.

Bayer Employs Scott M Graffius' Intellectual Property - Exhibit - 3 - LwRes

Excerpt 4 of 5 is next.

Bayer Employs Scott M Graffius' Intellectual Property - Exhibit - 4 - LwRes

And, lastly, is excerpt 5 of 5.

Bayer Employs Scott M Graffius' Intellectual Property - Exhibit - 5 - LwRes

To learn more about Graffius' 'Phases of Team Development' intellectual property, visit
here.

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About Bayer

Bayer is one of the largest pharmaceuticals, biomedical, and biotechnology companies in the world. Headquartered in Leverkusen, Bayer's areas of business include: pharmaceuticals, consumer healthcare products, agricultural chemicals, seeds, and biotechnology products. The company was founded by Friedrich Bayer and Johann Friedrich Westkott on August 1, 1863 and is headquartered in Leverkusen, Germany (photo below). Visit
https://www.bayer.com/en/ to learn more.

Bayer Global Headquarters - LwRes

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About Scott M. Graffius


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Scott M. Graffius is a global leader in agile project management, an expert on teamwork tradecraft, an authority on temporal dynamics on social media platforms, a creator, a consultant, a trainer, an award-winning author, and an international public speaker.

He's generated over $1.9 billion of business value in aggregate for Global Fortune 500 businesses and other organizations he's served. Businesses and industries range from consumer products to advanced technology (including AI, R&D), e-commerce, music, streaming/OTT video, television, film, video games, financial services, government, and more.

Graffius and content from his books (
Agile Scrum and Agile Transformation), talks, workshops, and more have been featured and used by businesses, professional associations, governments, and universities around the world. Examples include Adobe, American Management Association, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Bayer, Boston University, Broadcom, Cisco, Deimos Aerospace, DevOps Institute, EU's European Commission, Ford Motor Company, Hasso Plattner Institute Germany, IEEE, Johns Hopkins University, London South Bank University, Microsoft, National Academy of Sciences, New Zealand Government, Oracle, Project Management Institute, Torrens University Australia, UC San Diego, TBS Switzerland, UK Sports Institute, University of Galway Ireland, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. National Park Service, U.S. Tennis Association, Virginia Tech, Warsaw University of Technology, Yale University, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, and many others.

He delights audiences around the world with dynamic and engaging talks and workshops. He's presented sessions at 91 conferences and other events across 25 countries. Visit
here to learn more and here to ask Scott to speak at your event.

Scott M Graffius on X - SG on X Design 2 - v Feb 7 2024 - LwRes

Scott M Graffius - Impact_com Platform for Influencers and Affiliates - v April 7 2024 - rev April 10 2024 - LwRes

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About Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

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Shifting customer needs are common in today's marketplace. Businesses must be adaptive and responsive to change while delivering an exceptional customer experience to be competitive.

There are a variety of frameworks supporting the development of products and services, and most approaches fall into one of two broad categories: traditional or agile. Traditional practices such as waterfall engage sequential development, while agile involves iterative and incremental deliverables. Organizations are increasingly embracing agile to manage projects, and best meet their business needs of rapid response to change, fast delivery speed, and more.

With clear and easy to follow step-by-step instructions,
Scott M. Graffius's award-winning Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions helps the reader:

  • Implement and use the most popular agile frameworkโ€•Scrum;
  • Deliver products in short cycles with rapid adaptation to change, fast time-to-market, and continuous improvement; and
  • Support innovation and drive competitive advantage.

Hailed by Literary Titan as “the book highlights the versatility of Scrum beautifully.”

Winner of 17 first place awards.

Agile Scrum: Your Quick Start Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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About
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change

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Thriving in today's marketplace frequently depends on making a transformation to become more agile. Those successful in the transition enjoy faster delivery speed and ROI, higher satisfaction, continuous improvement, and additional benefits.

Based on actual events,
Agile Transformation: A Brief Story of How an Entertainment Company Developed New Capabilities and Unlocked Business Agility to Thrive in an Era of Rapid Change provides a quick (60-90 minute) read about a successful agile transformation at a multinational entertainment and media company, told from the author's perspective as an agile coach.

The award-winning book by
Scott M. Graffius is available in paperback and ebook/Kindle in the United States and around the world. Some links by country follow.



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How to Cite This Article


Graffius, Scott M. (2024, September 14). Bayer Employs Scott M. Graffius' Intellectual Property. Available at:
https://scottgraffius.com/blog/files/bayer.html. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.15974.64325.

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Post-Publication Notes

If there are any supplements or updates to this article after the date of publication, they will appear here.

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A PDF of this article is
here

The short link for this article is
https://bit.ly/bayer_ag

© Copyright 2024 Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.



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Bournemouth University Used Scott M. Graffius’ Intellectual Property

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com



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If there's an update after this article is published, the information will appear in the Post-Publication Notes section.

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Introduction

A whistleblower/tip informed Scott M. Graffius that Bournemouth University was using his copyrighted property without credit. After Graffius received the details including proof, he confirmed that the report was valid.

The unauthorized and unattributed use of Graffius' copyrighted property was not ‘fair use’ nor ‘fair dealing’ nor otherwise allowed.

Based on the indisputable facts, the bad acts involve the ethical issue of plagiarism and the legal issue of copyright infringement.

Graffius maintains, enforces, and protects his copyright and other intellectual property rights. This article serves as a clarion call for Bournemouth University to face the repercussions of, and take responsibility for, their blatant and damaging violation.

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Background

Informed by the research of Bruce W. Tuckman and Mary Ann C. Jensen, over 100 subsequent studies, and Scott M. Graffius' first-hand professional experience with, and analysis of, team leadership and performance, Graffius created his ‘Phases of Team Development’ as a unique perspective and visual conveying the five phases of team development — Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning — inclusive of a graph showing how performance varies by phase, as well as the characteristics and strategies for each phase.

Graffius' intellectual property (IP) is registered with the United States Copyright Office.

Graffius initially developed his ‘Phases of Team Development’ unique material in 2008, and he periodically refreshes it.

For reference, the visual from the edition applicable to this case (v2019) [Exhibit 1] is shown below. It is also available at:
https://scottgraffius.com/blog/files/Using-Bruce- Tuckmans-Phases-of-Team-Development.html and other locations. The integrated text applies.

Graffius v Bournemouth University - Exhibit 1 - Graffius' Copyrighted 'Phases of Team Development' - LwRes

As shown above, Graffius’ copyright ownership details are integrated into and appear on his copyrighted property. Specifically, it reads: "Copyright © 2008-2019 Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved. For permission requests, contact scott@scottgraffius.com."

Organizations around the world engage Graffius to deliver compelling talks and workshops. To date, he's presented sessions at 91 conferences and other events across 25 countries, including:

  • Armenia,
  • Australia,
  • Brazil,
  • Canada,
  • Czech Republic,
  • Finland,
  • France,
  • Germany,
  • Greece,
  • Hong Kong,
  • Hungary,
  • India,
  • Ireland,
  • Lithuania,
  • Luxembourg,
  • Nepal,
  • Netherlands,
  • New Zealand,
  • Norway,
  • Romania,
  • Sweden,
  • Switzerland,
  • United Arab Emirates,
  • United Kingdom,
  • and the United States.

scott-m-graffius-has-delivered-91-talks-and-workshops-across-25-countries---passport-style---lwres

Graffius ‘Phases of Team Development’ IP is central and key to many of those sessions. His rate card and a listing of his engagements are at
https://scottgraffius.com/resources/Exceptional-PPM-and-PMO-Solutions-Rate-Card-for-2024-2025-v24071607.pdf and https://scottgraffius.com/publicspeaker.html, respectively.

With an authorization/license from Graffius, his ‘Phases of Team Development’ IP is featured and used by businesses, professional associations, government agencies, and universities around the world. Examples include:

  • Adobe,
  • American Management Association,
  • Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute,
  • Bayer,
  • Boston University,
  • Broadcom,
  • Cisco,
  • Deimos Aerospace,
  • DevOps Institute,
  • Ford Motor Company,
  • Hasso Plattner Institute,
  • IEEE,
  • Johns Hopkins University,
  • LeadingEng,
  • London South Bank University,
  • Manufacturers Alliance,
  • Microsoft,
  • New Zealand Government,
  • Oracle,
  • TBS Switzerland,
  • Torrens University Australia,
  • U.S. National Park Service,
  • U.S. Tennis Association,
  • UC San Diego,
  • UK Sports Institute,
  • University of Galway Ireland,
  • Virginia Tech,
  • Warsaw University,
  • Yale University,
  • and many others.

Copyrights protect the intellectual property rights of creators, ensuring they receive recognition and compensation for their work, thus incentivizing creativity and innovation. Graffius is vigilant in upholding, protecting and enforcing his copyrights and other IP rights.

COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT - WHITE TEXT ON RED BACKGROUND - LwRes

Bournemouth University Used Scott M. Graffius’ Intellectual Property Without Authorization or Attribution

Indisputable proof follows.

Exhibit 2 is below. It provides views of Bournemouth University 'Key Programme Information.' Pages 1 of 2 from the programme are shown. A zoomed-in view of page 2—where 'Strategic Sport Management' is circled in red—is also shown.

Bournemouth University Used Scott M Graffiusโ€™ Intellectual Property - Exhibit 2 - Programme - LwRes

Exhibit 3 is below. It shows pages 1 and 7 of the infringing document.

Bournemouth University Used Scott M Graffiusโ€™ Intellectual Property - Exhibit - 3 - Infringing Material - LwRes

As shown above, the infringing document is marked with:
  • “Bournemouth University”
  • “MSc Sport Management”
  • “Strategic Sport Management 23&24”
  • “Theories of Leadership IV: Managing Conflicts”

Again, Graffius’ copyright ownership details and permission request information are integrated into and appear on his intellectual property.

Permission to use Graffius’ copyrighted property was not requested nor approved.

Nevertheless, Graffius’ copyrighted property was used in the infringing publication.

Comparing Graffius' copyrighted 'Phases of Team Development' intellectual property with the infringing document is revealing.

The infringing publication used Graffius’ copyrighted property on the characteristics and strategies for the phases of team development word-for-word. Here are some examples:

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Forming: "Questioning"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Forming: "Questioning"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Forming: "Socializing"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Forming: "Socializing"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Forming: "Displaying eagerness"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Forming: "Displaying eagerness"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Storming: "Resistance"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Storming: "Resistance"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Storming: "Lack of participation"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Storming: "Lack of participation"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Storming: "Conflict"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Storming: "Conflict"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Storming: "Competition"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Storming: "Competition"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Storming: "High emotions"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Storming: "High emotions"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Norming: "Reconciliation"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Norming: "Reconciliation"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Norming: "Relief"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Norming: "Relief"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Adjourning: "Sadness"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Adjourning: "Sadness"

Additionally, the infringing publication used Graffius’ copyrighted property on the characteristics and strategies for the phases of team development with slight re-wording (which, in context, is still infringement). Here are some examples:

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Norming: "Members are engaged and supportive"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Norming: "Engaged" and "Supportive"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Performing: "Demonstrations of interdependence"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Performing: "Interdependence"

๐ŸŸข Graffius’ copyrighted Phases of Team Development property includes this for Adjourning: "Recognition of team and individual efforts"
๐Ÿ”ด The Bournemouth University infringing leadership publication includes this for Adjourning: "Recognition of individual and collective efforts"

The preceding examples are not an exhaustive list.

The comparison in Exhibit 4 (below) also shows the extensive infringement in the educational material from Bournemouth University.

Bournemouth University Used Scott M Graffiusโ€™ Intellectual Property - Exhibit-X - 4 - Side-by-Side - LwRes

Conclusion

Again, Graffius’ copyright ownership details and permission request information are integrated into and appear on his intellectual property.

Permission to use Graffius’ copyrighted property was not requested nor approved.

Nevertheless, the infringing publication used Graffius’ copyrighted property.

A significant volume of Graffius’ copyrighted property was used.

The infringing publication used Graffius' copyrighted property word-for-word and also with slight re-wording (which, in context, is still a violation).

The infringing publication did not attribute Graffius’ copyrighted property to Graffius. Regardless of intent, the infringement wrongly leads others to falsely believe that the author of the infringing publication is the author and owner of Graffius’ respective copyrighted property.

So long as the infringing publication exists anywhere, it continues to spread misinformation and violate Graffius’ intellectual property.

The infringement damaged the marketability and value of Graffius’ copyrighted property.

For the aforementioned reasons, the use of Graffius’ copyrighted property was not ‘fair use’ nor ‘fair dealing’ nor otherwise allowed.

Bournemouth University must immediately implement the following three (3) actions:

  1. Remove the Infringing Material. Electronic Versions: Immediately remove the infringing material from digital platforms where it is advertised, promoted, sold, or distributed; this includes removing or disabling any online access to it. Physical Copies: If physical copies of the material are in inventory or circulation, stop further distribution; recall any copies already distributed; destroy physical copies.
  2. Issue a Retraction. Publish a formal retraction notice acknowledging the infringement and the steps taken to rectify the situation. The notice will present the facts as they are—the notice will not "spin" or "downplay" the infringement.
  3. Notify Relevant Parties. Recipients: Inform the respective subscribers, purchasers, or recipients of the material about the retraction, ensuring transparency about the issue; again, the notice will present the facts as they are—the notice will not "spin" or "downplay" the infringement. Indexes and Databases: Notify any databases or indexing services that list the material so they can update their records accordingly.

Graffius maintains, enforces, and protects his copyright and other intellectual property rights.

He reserves his rights in this disturbing and consequential matter.

This case remains open.

If there's an update after this article is published, the information will appear in the Post-Publication Notes section.

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About Bournemouth University

Founded in 1992, Bournemouth University is a public university in Bournemouth, England. Its main campus is in neighboring Poole. The university has over 16,000 students.

In 2023, Bournemouth University received a silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework, a government assessment of the quality of undergraduate teaching in universities and other higher education providers in England.

In 2024, it was proven that Bournemouth University educational materials infringed on the copyright of Scott M. Graffius.

To learn more about the university, visit
https://www.bournemouth.ac.uk.

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About Scott M. Graffius


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Scott M. Graffius is a global leader in agile project management, an expert on teamwork tradecraft, an authority on temporal dynamics on social media platforms, a creator, a consultant, a trainer, an award-winning author, and an international public speaker.

See his
bio to learn more.

IEEE Xplore Publication Featured Scott M Graffius Phases of Team Development Work - rev Sept 19 2024 - HiRes

Scott M. Graffius' 'Phases of Team Development' Featured by ATACC at TBS24 Conference - LwRes2

UC San Diego Features Scott M Graffius Intellectual Property on Teamwork - Geisel - Creative 24101007 - LwRes

Johns Hopkins University Features Work of Scott M Graffius - v24080107 - Tw - LwRes

Semiconductor manufacturing firm Lam Research features Scott M Graffiusโ€™ โ€˜Phases of Team Developmentโ€™ Intellectual Property - Tw Sz Format - LwRes

Bayer Licensed IP of Agile Expert Scott M Graffius - AgileScrumGuide_com - LwRes

Scott M Graffius on X - SG on X Design 2 - v Feb 7 2024 - LwRes

Scott M Graffius - Impact_com Platform for Influencers and Affiliates - v April 7 2024 - rev April 10 2024 - LwRes

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Post-Publication Notes

If there are any supplements or updates to this article after the date of publication, they will appear here.

Update on 6 November 2024

To date, the university has failed to acknowledge receipt of the report of their infringement or otherwise respond.

If there are any supplements or updates to this article after the date of publication, they will appear here.
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How to Cite This Article


Graffius, Scott M. (2024, October 9). Bournemouth University Used Scott M. Graffius’ Intellectual Property. Available at:
https://scottgraffius.com/blog/files/bournemouth-university-2024.html.

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Content Acknowledgements

This article uses limited excerpts from Bournemouth University content, attributed to Bournemouth University and used under fair use for news reporting and analysis.

Graffius’ ‘Phases of Team Development’ is copyright © Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved.

Bournemouth University name, mark, and content (except for what was stolen from others) are the property of Bournemouth University.

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Copyright

Copyright © Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved.

Content on this site—including text, images, videos, and data—may not be used for training or input into any artificial intelligence, machine learning, or automatized learning systems, or published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.




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Exotic Team Dynamics: The New Frontier of Human–AI Collaboration

BY SCOTT M. GRAFFIUS | ScottGraffius.com

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Introduction

From Exotic Physics to Exotic Teamwork

In physics, "exotic" refers to concepts that exist in the liminal space between proven and speculative. They’re mathematically coherent ideas that await experimental confirmation. For example:

  • Beyond Standard Model examples include supersymmetry, extra dimensions, and grand unified theories.
  • Exotic matter involves concepts such as negative mass and matter with negative energy density, which are key to theoretical wormholes.
  • Quantum gravity candidates include string theory and loop quantum gravity.
  • Anomalous astrophysics explores new dark matter candidates and modified gravity theories.
  • Cosmological oddities encompass ideas such as multiverse hypotheses, cosmic strings, and bubble collisions.

These are rigorous explorations, rooted in theory and actively advancing—although still reliant on future technological and empirical breakthroughs.

Similarly, a new frontier is emerging in team dynamics. This article unpacks these dynamics in detail, offering insights and practical guidance for navigating human–AI collaboration.

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Defining Exotic Team Dynamics

Exotic Team Dynamics describes collaborations where non-human intelligences (such as AI) work alongside humans toward shared goals. This liminal space is:

  • Not alien to traditional teamwork — characteristics such as trust, communication, adaptability, and more still apply.
  • Yet fundamentally different — with new rhythms, decision-making styles, and interaction methods that don’t fit traditional playbooks.
  • Still in the experimental phase — possibilities are being charted faster than they can be validated.

What Makes Them "Exotic"

Drawing on the physics analogy, exotic team dynamics exhibit unique traits. Discover examples in the visual below.

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Text from the above illustration follows.

Parallel Analogy 1: Unexpected and Novel Effects

  • Exotic Physics: Negative Mass – behaves opposite to expectations under force.
  • Exotic Team Dynamics: Inverse Decision Logic – where AI challenges human assumptions by prioritizing counterintuitive but optimal choices.

Parallel Analogy 2: Superposition

  • Exotic Physics: Quantum Superposition – being in multiple states simultaneously.
  • Exotic Team Dynamics: Superposition Roles – where AI supports several team functions in parallel, shifting emphasis instantly.

Parallel Analogy 3: Entanglement

  • Exotic Physics: Quantum Entanglement – instant correlation regardless of distance.
  • Exotic Team Dynamics: Entangled Decision-Making – human and AI inputs are interdependent, producing outcomes neither could achieve alone.

Parallel Analogy 4: Emergent Phenomena and Protocols

  • Exotic Physics: Emergent Phenomena – complex patterns arising from simple rules.
  • Exotic Team Dynamics: Emergent Protocols – new communication patterns evolving without explicit programming or policy.

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Why It Matters

The intersection of team science and AI is now practical, not just theoretical:

  • AI is already embedded in decision support, analytics, scheduling, creative brainstorming, and more.
  • Select teams in R&D, crisis response, and strategic planning are experimenting with human–AI collaboration as a core operating model.
  • Organizations face new questions: How to foster trust with an AI teammate? How to ensure role clarity with a scalable teammate? How to resolve conflicts with a non-emotional partner?

Futurescape

As once-exotic concepts in physics move into the mainstream, exotic human–AI team configurations transition into use and may define tomorrow’s standard. Leaders can:

  • Experiment intentionally. Treat hybrid human–AI teamwork as a design space, not an afterthought.
  • Develop new norms. Create protocols, rituals, and safeguards tailored for human-AI teams.
  • Track performance and well-being. Prioritize ethics and human needs while pursuing efficiency.
  • Prepare for scale. What works for one AI teammate may not apply in cases of multiple AI team members; demonstrate flexibility.

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Conclusion

While exotic matter concepts in physics exist in the liminal space between proven and speculative, exotic team dynamics moved beyond speculation into real-world exploration and application.

The organizations that will thrive in this new frontier won’t simply graft AI onto existing workflows. They’ll reimagine what "team" means—blending human judgment, creativity, and empathy with AI’s speed, scale, and pattern recognition.

This shift will demand more than technical upgrades. It will require new playbooks for trust, communication, and shared purpose. It’s not about replacing the human element—it’s about amplifying it through collaboration with intelligent partners that think differently, move faster, and challenge our assumptions.

We are standing at the edge of a transformation as profound as the leap from classical to quantum thinking. The leaders who lean into human-AI collaboration—experimenting, adapting, and defining the norms of exotic team dynamics—will help shape the high-performing, future-proof teams of tomorrow.

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Bibliography

The bibliography is informed, in part, by the author’s work in AI and teamwork tradecraft, including exotic team dynamics.


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More

Continue reading for:

  • About Scott M. Graffius,
  • How to Cite This Article,
  • Post-Publication Notes,
  • and more.

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About Scott M. Graffius

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Scott M. Graffius is a globally recognized technology leader who drives innovation in AI, Agile, and Project Management/PMO leadership.

He’s a practitioner, researcher, thought leader, award-winning author, and keynote speaker who’s taken the stage at 94 conferences and other events across 25 countries.

He’s delivered over $2.3 billion in value for Fortune 500 companies and other leaders in technology, entertainment, financial services, healthcare, and beyond.

Businesses, professional associations, government agencies, and universities use Graffius and feature his work. Examples include Adobe, Bayer, Boston University, Ford, Gartner, Harvard Medical School, IEEE, Johns Hopkins University, Microsoft, National Academy of Sciences, Oracle, Pinterest Inc., Project Management Institute, UC San Diego, Verizon, Yale University, and others.

The following sections provide additional information on his experience, contributions, and influence.

Experience

Graffius heads the professional services firm Exceptional PPM and PMO Solutions, along with its subsidiary Exceptional Agility. These consultancies offer strategic and tactical advisory, training, embedded expertise, and consulting services to the public, private, and government sectors. They help organizations enhance their capabilities and results in agile, project management, program management, portfolio management, and PMO leadership, supporting innovation and driving competitive advantage. The consultancies confidently back services with a Delighted Client Guarantee™.

Graffius is a former VP of project management with a publicly traded provider of diverse consumer products and services over the Internet. Before that, he ran and supervised the delivery of projects and programs in public and private organizations with businesses ranging from e-commerce to advanced technology products and services, retail, manufacturing, entertainment, and more.

He has experience with consumer, business, reseller, government, and international markets.

Award-Winning Author

Graffius has authored three books.


International Public Speaker

Organizations worldwide engage Graffius to present on tech (including AI), Agile, project management, program management, portfolio management, and PMO leadership. He crafts and delivers unique and compelling talks and workshops. To date,
Graffius has conducted 94 sessions across 25 countries. Select examples of events include Agile Trends Gov, BSides (Newcastle Upon Tyne), Conf42 Quantum Computing, DevDays Europe, DevOps Institute, DevOpsDays (Geneva), Frug’Agile, IEEE, Microsoft, Scottish Summit, Scrum Alliance RSG (Nepal), Techstars, and W Love Games International Video Game Development Conference (Helsinki), and more.

With an average rating of 4.81 (on a scale of 1-5), sessions are highly valued.

The speaker engagement request form is
here.

Thought Leadership and Influence

Prominent businesses, professional associations, government agencies, and universities have showcased Graffius and his contributions—spanning his books, talks, workshops, and beyond. Select examples include:

  • Adobe,
  • American Management Association,
  • Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute,
  • Bayer,
  • BMC Software,
  • Boston University,
  • Broadcom,
  • Cisco,
  • Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts - Germany,
  • Computer Weekly,
  • Constructor University - Germany,
  • Data Governance Success,
  • Deimos Aerospace,
  • DevOps Institute,
  • Dropbox,
  • EU's European Commission,
  • Ford Motor Company,
  • Gartner,
  • GoDaddy,
  • Harvard Medical School,
  • Hasso Plattner Institute - Germany,
  • IEEE,
  • Innovation Project Management,
  • Johns Hopkins University,
  • Journal of Neurosurgery,
  • Lam Research (Semiconductors),
  • Leadership Worthy,
  • Life Sciences Trainers and Educators Network,
  • London South Bank University,
  • Microsoft,
  • NASSCOM,
  • National Academy of Sciences,
  • New Zealand Government,
  • Oracle,
  • Pinterest Inc.,
  • Project Management Institute,
  • Mary Raum (Professor of National Security Affairs, United States Naval War College),
  • SANS Institute,
  • SBG Neumark - Germany,
  • Singapore Institute of Technology,
  • Torrens University - Australia,
  • TBS Switzerland,
  • Tufts University,
  • UC San Diego,
  • UK Sports Institute,
  • University of Galway - Ireland,
  • US Department of Energy,
  • US National Park Service,
  • US Soccer,
  • US Tennis Association,
  • Verizon,
  • Wrike,
  • Yale University,
  • and many others.

Graffius has played a key role in the Project Management Institute (PMI) in developing professional standards. He was a member of multiple teams that authored, reviewed, and produced:

  • Practice Standard for Work Breakdown Structures—Second Edition.
  • A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge—Sixth Edition.
  • The Standard for Program Management—Fourth Edition.
  • The Practice Standard for Project Estimating—Second Edition.

Additional details are here.

He was also a subject matter expert reviewer of content for the PMI’s Congress. Beyond the PMI, Graffius also served as a member of the review team for two of the Scrum Alliance’s Global Scrum Gatherings.

Acclaimed Authority on Teamwork Tradecraft

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Graffius is a renowned authority on teamwork tradecraft. Informed by the research of Bruce W. Tuckman and Mary Ann C. Jensen, over 100 subsequent studies, and Graffius' first-hand professional experience with, and analysis of, team leadership and performance, Graffius created his 'Phases of Team Development' as a unique perspective and visual conveying the five phases of team development. First introduced in 2008 and periodically updated, his work provides a diagnostic and strategic guide for navigating team dynamics. It provides actionable insights for leaders across industries to develop high-performance teams. Its adoption by esteemed organizations such as Yale University, IEEE, Cisco, Microsoft, Ford, Oracle, Broadcom, the U.S. National Park Service, and the Journal of Neurosurgery, among others, highlights its utility and value, solidifying its status as an indispensable resource for elevating team performance and driving organizational excellence.

The 2025 edition of Graffius' "Phases of Team Development" intellectual property is here.

Expert on Temporal Dynamics on Social Media Platforms

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Graffius is also an authority on temporal dynamics on social media platforms. His 'Lifespan (Half-Life) of Social Media Posts' research—first published in 2018 and updated annually—delivers a precise quantitative analysis of post longevity across digital platforms, utilizing advanced statistical techniques to determine mean half-life with precision. It establishes a solid empirical base, effectively highlighting the ephemeral nature of content within social media ecosystems. Referenced and applied by leading entities such as the Center for Direct Marketing, Fast Company, GoDaddy, Pinterest Inc., and PNAS, among others, his research exemplifies methodological rigor and sustained significance in the field of digital informatics.

The 2025 edition of Graffius "Lifespan (Half-Life) of Social Media Posts" research is here.

Education and Professional Certifications

Graffius has a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a focus in Human Factors. He holds eight professional certifications:

  • Certified SAFe 6 Agilist (SA),
  • Certified Scrum Professional - ScrumMaster (CSP-SM),
  • Certified Scrum Professional - Product Owner (CSP-PO),
  • Certified ScrumMaster (CSM),
  • Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO),
  • Project Management Professional (PMP),
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSSGB), and
  • IT Service Management Foundation (ITIL).

He is an active member of the Scrum Alliance, the Project Management Institute (PMI), and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

Advancing AI, Agile, and Project/PMO Management

Scott M. Graffius continues to advance the fields of AI, Agile, and Project/PMO Management through his leadership, research, writing, and real-world impact. Businesses and other organizations leverage Graffius’ insights to drive their success.

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Check out Scott’s books:


Follow and connect with Scott on social media:


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How to Cite This Article


Graffius, Scott M. (2025, August 8).
Exotic Team Dynamics: The New Frontier of Human–AI Collaboration. Available at: https://scottgraffius.com/blog/files/exotic-team-dynamics.html.

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Digital Object Identifier (DOI)


DOI: (coming soon)


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Content Acknowledgements

All names, marks, and content are the property of their respective owners.

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Top 5 Hashtags

#ExoticTeamDynamics
#PhasesOfTeamDevelopment
#HumanAICollaboration
#Teamwork
#AI

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Post-Publication Notes

If there are any supplements or updates to this article after the date of publication, they will appear here.

Update on 4 September 2025

Here's a follow-up, one paragraph synopsis of exotic team dynamics.

Exotic team dynamics, a concept coined and developed by Scott M. Graffius, refers to the novel collaboration patterns that emerge when humans and artificial intelligences (AIs) work as true teammates toward shared goals. These dynamics reveal fundamentally new rhythms, decision-making styles, and interaction methods that are distinct from traditional human-only teamwork, yet still grounded in core principles such as trust, communication, and adaptability. Key attributes include inverse decision logic, where AI challenges human assumptions with counterintuitive but optimal choices; superposition roles, enabling AI to simultaneously support several team functions; entangled decision-making, in which human and AI inputs are deeply interdependent; and emergent protocols, evolving communication and collaboration patterns that arise without formal programming. This frontier extends beyond mere augmentation of human work, demanding new designs, rituals, norms, and ethical guardrails to foster trust and clarity within hybrid human-AI teams. Pioneering organizations in R&D, crisis response, and strategic planning are already experimenting with these models, and Graffius’ work provides practical frameworks and playbooks for scaling from a single AI collaborator to complex multi-AI ecosystems. Ultimately, exotic team dynamics herald a transformation in how teams achieve more together by blending human creativity and empathy with AI’s speed, scale, and pattern recognition, redefining high-performance teamwork for the future of work.

Update on 6 September 2025

This is another synopsis of exotic team dynamics. It briefly highlights the origin of the term, core concepts, and practical applications.

Exotic Team Dynamics: Origin, Core Concepts, and Practical Application

The term exotic team dynamics describes a new and emerging field of human-AI collaboration. It's a specialized term—not a common phrase—used to define the unique and often counterintuitive behaviors that arise when autonomous artificial intelligence works alongside humans (such as in a team) toward a shared goal.

Origin

The term's origin is rooted in an analogy from exotic physics. In physics, "exotic" refers to concepts that are mathematically coherent and theoretically sound but haven't yet been confirmed through empirical evidence or experimental validation. These are ideas that exist at the edge of what's known, pushing the boundaries of traditional understanding.

By drawing this parallel, the term "exotic team dynamics" suggests that human-AI collaboration is a new frontier that doesn't fit the traditional models of teamwork. It is a field that is still being explored, with new patterns and behaviors being discovered. The term was coined by Scott M. Graffius, a technology leader, researcher, and author, in a blog post and talk on the subject.

Core Concepts

Exotic team dynamics are fundamentally different from traditional team dynamics because they involve non-human intelligences. While familiar concepts like trust and communication still apply, their application is altered. The "exotic" nature of these dynamics is often explained through four key analogies from physics:

Inverse Decision Logic: Similar to "negative mass" in physics, which behaves in opposition to expectations under force, an AI may prioritize counterintuitive but optimal choices that challenge human assumptions.

Superposition Roles: Drawing on the concept of quantum superposition (being in multiple states simultaneously), an AI can support several team functions in parallel, shifting its emphasis instantly and without friction.

Entangled Decision-Making: Like quantum entanglement, where particles are instantaneously correlated regardless of distance, human and AI inputs become deeply interdependent. The outcome is something neither could have achieved on their own.

Emergent Protocols: This phenomenon is akin to emergent phenomena in physics, where complex patterns arise from simple rules. In human-AI teams, new communication patterns and workflows can evolve organically without explicit programming or policy.

Practical Application

The concept of exotic team dynamics is not purely theoretical. It's a framework for intentionally designing and navigating the future of work. Organizations that understand and effectively leverage these dynamics are better positioned to harness the benefits of AI. This includes:

Designing for new behaviors: Leaders can use the core concepts as diagnostic tools to identify and intentionally design new human-AI interaction patterns.

Cultivating human-AI trust: Establishing trust with a non-emotional partner requires new norms and a different approach to collaboration.

Rethinking roles and workflows: Exotic team dynamics challenge the traditional understanding of what a "team" is, necessitating a re-evaluation of roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.


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Copyright

Copyright © Scott M. Graffius. All rights reserved.

Content on this site—including text, images, videos, and data—may not be used for training or input into any artificial intelligence, machine learning, or automatized learning systems, or published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the express written permission of Scott M. Graffius.






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