Date of Conferral

2019

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Business Administration

Advisor

Peter Anthony

Abstract

Some small business leaders lack strategies to develop effective teams. Lack of team development affects the ability of restaurant small business owners to remain profitable for longer than 5 years. The focus of this multiple case study was an exploration of the role team development plays in business profitability. The population for this study was 3 experienced owners of restaurants in New Jersey that remained open for longer than 5 years. The conceptual framework was based on the Tuckman model of team development to highlight the connection between the model and how small business owners use team development to remain profitable for longer than 5 years. Data were collected using face-to-face interviews and review of business documents provided by 2 of the participants. Through thematic analysis of the data, the following themes emerged: the number of years in business and the training program; well-developed, skillful teams are key to business success; committed teams lead to sustainability; and team development and sustainability. Studying the team development strategies used in small business restaurants may help other business owners stay profitable for longer than 5 years. The findings of the study may provide valuable information for individuals wanting to start a business or for owners of small businesses who want to learn how to make their businesses profitable. Profitable businesses can create positive social change in communities by providing jobs and an influx of capital to community neighborhoods.

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