An Outside Observer

For small group projects, a consultant or observer is essential for the group. In systemic feedback, the book explains the four ways of obtaining feedback to improve a group’s future success – making external evaluation and advice an important point. An observer is used to provide feedback that can help improve the efficiency of how the group interacts with one another and completes their project. Observers are meant to provide feedback on how well the project went and pin point on two or three areas the group can improve on. Good feedback from an observer outside the group is necessary, so the group is aware of aspects that need to be enhanced.

A consultant or observer is able to recognize areas the group can work on. For example, group members are more concerned with completing the project rather than the interactions they have with one another. An outside observer can evaluate and suggest improvements to better the relationships the members have with each other to make the process run more smoothly. If the relationships are improved, the end result of the project and success of the group is maximized due to the effectiveness of an observer.