Virtual work introduces distinct challenges when compared to face-to-face or on-site work. Communication and collaboration are key factors in team development and in team performance. When teamwork is of a global nature, imposed because of a pandemic, then additional variables are introduced into the equation. The challenges that global virtual teams (GVTs) encounter when communicating and developing in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic impacts how work is structured and teams develop. This qualitative study was conducted just over 1 year after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic when working from home became mandatory and particular challenges for GVTs became apparent. Data are gathered through an online anonymous survey and followed by semi-structured video-mediated interviews with staff in a large multinational software development company. Findings show that GVTs encounter a number of distinct challenges than face-to-face teams. However, individuals are actively adapting to the situation in which they find themselves and are learning to deal with the challenges by being proactive. Even though the tools used previously may not be entirely suitable for virtual work, GVTs learn to change how tools are used to be more productive and collaborative. Challenges continue to exist in areas, such as knowledge gathering and knowledge sharing. Communication failures can lead to delays and confusion. The findings also indicate that even though GVTs are not communicating as much informally or socially with their colleagues because of remote working in the pandemic, being remote is not having a negative effect on the ability to get work done. Some aspects of team development can be negatively affected when working in GVTs. Impacts are identified relating to trust and relationship building, as well as being able to identify and resolve conflict. These results prompt further research opportunities as organizations and individuals continue to adapt and embrace global virtual teamwork.

中文翻译：

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在 Covid-19 大流行期间工作的全球虚拟团队

与面对面或现场工作相比，虚拟工作带来了截然不同的挑战。沟通和协作是团队发展和团队绩效的关键因素。当团队合作具有全球性时，由于大流行而强加，那么其他变量就会被引入方程式。全球虚拟团队 (GVT) 在 Covid-19 大流行的背景下进行沟通和发展时遇到的挑战会影响工作的结构和团队的发展方式。这项定性研究是在 Covid-19 大流行开始后一年多的时间进行的，当时在家工作成为强制性的，GVT 面临的特殊挑战变得显而易见。数据是通过在线匿名调查收集的，然后是对一家大型跨国软件开发公司的员工进行半结构化视频介导访谈。调查结果表明，与面对面的团队相比，GVT 遇到了许多截然不同的挑战。然而，个人正在积极适应他们发现自己的情况，并正在学习通过积极主动来应对挑战。尽管以前使用的工具可能并不完全适合虚拟工作，但 GVT 学会改变工具的使用方式以提高生产力和协作性。知识收集和知识共享等领域仍然存在挑战。沟通失败会导致延误和混乱。调查结果还表明，尽管由于在大流行病中远程工作，GVT 与同事的非正式或社交沟通不多，但远程工作不会对完成工作的能力产生负面影响。在 GVT 中工作时，团队发展的某些方面可能会受到负面影响。确定与建立信任和关系以及能够识别和解决冲突有关的影响。随着组织和个人继续适应和接受全球虚拟团队合作，这些结果促使进一步的研究机会。