Gruepr: A Tool for the Formation of Ideal Teams

Abstract

Group projects are often used in the management classroom for assignments such as simulations, presentations, service-learning projects, or research projects. Faculty often rely on student-selected teams or randomly assigned teams, both of which have pros and cons. In some cases, faculty may wish to assign teams based on specific criteria (student availability to meet, prior relevant experience, letting students choose teammates to request/avoid, etc.), but extensive administrative work is often necessary. This article introduces gruepr, a program developed to streamline the assignment of ideal teams based on instructor-selected criteria. Gruepr allows instructors to assign intentional teams with the course goals in mind, with little training required. This article describes potential uses of gruepr, considerations when employing gruepr, and how gruepr compares with other team assignment programs currently available.