Collaboration In Mechanical Engineering

Group work is one of the things in life that we either love or hate.  It all comes down to the ability to plan, be flexible, and be fair.  Engineers have to collaborate on a daily basis in order to overcome tasks.  One of the main reasons for collaboration in engineering is a time constraint.  We have all heard the common expression that time is money.  This is very true in the sense that we, as humans, are genetically impatient.  We want things done fast, and will even pay more to have it that way.  With more than one set of eyes on a project, it generally can get done much faster.  This is possible because we all have different skills and techniques, which enable us to spot others mistakes, or do something faster.

Major Collaborations

One of the most recent examples of collaboration in engineering that I could think of is the collaboration between Ford Motor Company and General Motors on developing a new 10 speed transmission.  The transmission is designed for use in front engine rear drive applications, such as the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Silverado.  The main reason for the collaboration in this case was to not only cut the required time for development, but also cut the costs normally attributed to research and development.  The transmissions, which started development in 2014, are planned to go into production on the 2017 Camaro ZL1 and the 2017 Ford Raptor.

How to Effectively Work as a Group

UsaToday.com says there are seven things that, if done correctly, take the pain out of group work. These seven things are: Choose group members wisely, find out how to communicate, set deadlines, take control, don't procrastinate, use your resources, and last but not least, stay positive.  Out of these seven tips, I believe three are the most important: communication, take the lead, and stay positive. 

Communication

Without communication a group just isn't a group, and is more just a couple people who are all confused as to what is going on.  For a group project that I am currently working on we used three forms of communication.  The main two we used were email and in-person contact. The third medium of communication that we used was texting, and we only used this in order to get a message out quickly to everyone.  We also used Google Drive to work documents and spreadsheets all at the same time, without having to physically be together.

Taking The Lead

Some people are born leaders, while others have to learn that useful skill.  Either way, having leadership skills will help you survive through your group project.  Whether it be scheduling group meetings or being the one to turn in the final project. Also as the group leader you are usually the one who makes sure all of the assigned tasks are completed, and picks up the slack if they aren't. 

Staying Positive
The one thing that can completely destroy a group project is a bad attitude.  The moment that you start yelling at or getting frustrated with your group members, is the moment that your group project has started going down hill.  The best thing to do is keep your head up, and just push through. This way you are not putting unneeded stress on yourself or your group members.