BY Edwin Juma Omol
FORMAL GROUPSINFORMAL GROUPS
Formal groups are knowingly and systematically created.Spontaneously created.
Informal groups are not really created, they are naturally formed.
As we discussed earlier, in the computer department, we have HOD, OFFICE STAFF, etc. So there is a system in place.Loose structure
In informal groups, there is no structure at all. They just come together for some time. There is no junior and senior…everybody is equal.
In a formal group, importance is always given to the position. Ex: the group leader, the head of department, etc. The position gets importance in a formal way because there is a system in place.Importance to the person.
The beauty of being in an informal group is that the position does not exist at all because there is no structure. So importance is always given to the person.
The relationship is very formal and official in a formal group. So the relationship and behavior is almost prescribed in a formal group.Relationship is personal.
In an informal group, the interaction and the attachment becomes very personal and not official.
By restricted we mean that the "boss may decide that certain information should not be discussed below a certain level."
Communication is very slow because a certain procedure has to be followed if we want to pass down the information.Communication is free and fast.
Everybody wants to tell everyone all the information. With the gossip network in an informal group, information is passed very quickly.
Formal groups have a stated , common purpose . They generally have a group leader , or each member takes a turn at leading the group.
Formal is where you look nice and dress up informal is where you look causal.
Informal groups are not made by the management but get made on their own inside an organization because of constant interaction between members. Formal groups are groups with roles and responsibilities for those within, such as a church.
informal groups in belize
Slang is informal language used by specific groups, while formal jargon is more professional and widely accepted.
examples of a formal groups are departments, divisions, task force, project groups, quality circles, committees, and board of directors. For informal groups it can be a group of a employees who band together to seek union.
Formal refers to following established rules and regulations. Informal is more relaxed because the rules aren't really acknowledged. Businesses have both formal and informal groups.
Both formal and informal groups consist of individuals who come together for a common purpose or shared interest. They facilitate communication and collaboration among members, fostering relationships and a sense of belonging. While formal groups are structured with defined roles and responsibilities, informal groups often arise spontaneously and are based on personal connections. Despite their differences in organization, both types of groups can significantly influence individual behavior and group dynamics.
Social Control
A formal group is a group that has organization, structure, officers, and regular meetings. An informal group is more relaxed and more of a social gathering.
Formal groups typically have a longer lifespan than informal groups because they are established with specific goals, structures, and responsibilities, which provide a clear framework for ongoing collaboration. Additionally, formal groups often have organizational support and resources, which help sustain their activities over time, whereas informal groups may dissolve more quickly due to changes in member interests or circumstances.
It really stems down to want you want out of the group, if you prefer a structured programme of events then formal is for you, if you prefer a more ad hoc experience then informal.