When Group Projects Go Bad

Don't let it come to this

What happens when a group project goes wrong? Unfortunately this is a common occurrence; group project work often goes wrong, sometimes badly wrong. So how do we fix it? 

Group projects are something we do a lot of at Escape Studios.  Animation is a team sport - almost all of our graduates will end up working in teams along side other artists on group projects in commercial studios.

Team Work at Escape Studios

Developing the skills to work on team projects is essential for success in our industry.  Employers tell us they want team players, not soloists.  The problem is, group projects are hard, and can easily go wrong. Below are some thoughts on what to do when the (almost) inevitable happens. 

Assume Good Will

Working in teams at Escape Studios

Remember that everyone really, really wants the project to go well, and most people do their best.  But not everyone agrees on how to get to the finishing line, and arguments over creative decisions are common.  If someone disagrees with you, they may just have a different vision for the project. 

Don't Let it Escalate

Take a step back and try not to let disagreements escalate. Our industry is still a small one, and you will likely be working with your peers for decades to come.  Ask yourself if it really, really matters, and make sure your disagreements are not forever.

Remember: "It's Just a Cartoon"

As I was memorably told at the Disney Studio in the 1990s when I had a disagreement with a colleague - "it's just a cartoon". We're not saving lives here.  What feels incredibly important today will feel much less important tomorrow.  And in a few years time you will likely not even recall what the argument was about. 

Avoid the Temptation to "Down Tools"

Don't give up. If you have a job to do, get it done, even if you are feeling frustrated and angry. Your task still needs to be completed, even if the outcome isn't what you hoped for.  

You Get Out What You Put In

Award-winning "Shimmer"

For all those team members who just want to coast along and take credit for other people's work, remember that this will not help you build a successful career.  The skills involved in pitching in, doing your bit, and contributing to a successful group project are highly transferable skills which will stand you in good stead in the jobs marketplace.  Plus you will learn a huge amount along the way.

 
Teamwork at Escape Studios
To see more about teamwork at Escape Studios follow the links below:

• Managing Team Projects at Escape Studios
• Group Projects - Six Rules for Success
• The Escape Method - How it Works
• How Feedback Works at Escape Studios
• Marking Group Projects
• The Rookies Ranks Escape Studios in Top 5 Globally for Teamwork
• How to Make a Short Animated Film
• Framestore Brings Teamwork to Escape Studios
• How We Select Teams for Group Projects at Escape Studios

The Escape Studios Animation Blog offers a personal view on the art of animation and visual effects. To find out more about our new BA/MArt in the Art of Computer Animation starting in September 2022, see this post. And to apply, follow this link.