Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) Practice Test

In terms of teams, which type is characterized by independence and decision-making autonomy?

1. Functional teams

2. Cross-functional teams

3. Self-directed teams

4. Hierarchical teams

The correct answer is: Self-directed teams

The type of team that is characterized by independence and decision-making autonomy is the self-directed team. These teams operate with a high degree of freedom, allowing members to take initiative, make decisions collectively, and manage their own work processes. Unlike traditional teams, where roles may be dictated by leadership or a rigid structure, self-directed teams are empowered to handle tasks and challenges with minimal oversight. This autonomy fosters accountability, encourages creative problem-solving, and often leads to greater job satisfaction among team members. In contrast, functional teams typically consist of individuals from the same department working on specific tasks, which may limit their decision-making to their function. Cross-functional teams include members from different departments who collaborate for a common purpose but still often operate within the constraints of their respective functions and hierarchical structures. Hierarchical teams are defined by a clear structure where decisions are made at higher levels, diminishing the autonomy of team members.