What is the term for a set of phases that temporary groups go through involving transitions between inertia and activity?

The term that refers to the set of phases that temporary groups experience, characterized by shifts between periods of inactivity (inertia) and heightened activity, is known as the punctuated-equilibrium model. This model suggests that the development of a group is not a smooth, linear process; rather, it features sudden changes or transitions between phases of calm and productive activity.

The punctuated-equilibrium model, introduced by Connie Gersick, emphasizes how time constraints can influence the behavior of groups, particularly in temporary settings. It posits that groups may experience periods of stability where little changes occurs, followed by rapid shifts when the group's awareness about deadlines propels them into action. Thus, this model effectively captures the dynamic nature of team interactions and productivity across its lifecycle.

The other options, while relevant to group dynamics, do not specifically address the pattern of transitions between inertia and activity as highlighted in the punctuated-equilibrium model. Role dynamics explore the interactions and expectations of individual roles within a group, the group evolution model tends to focus more on the stages of development without the explicit concept of inertia, and the cycle of teamwork typically refers to the stages of teamwork but does not capture the unique punctuated transitions.