Virtual Team Performance in a Highly Competitive Environment

1. René Algesheimer
   1. University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland, rene.algesheimer@isu.uzh.ch

1. Utpal M. Dholakia
   1. Rice University, Houston, Texas

1. Călin Gurău
   1. GSCM-Montpellier Business School, Montpellier, France

Abstract

In this article, we empirically validate a version of the input-mediator-output-input (IMOI) model (Ilgen, Hollenbeck, Johnson, & Jundt, 2005), adapting it to investigate virtual team performance in a highly competitive environment. Our hypotheses are tested using structural equation modeling across time periods with data obtained from 606 professional online gaming teams belonging to the European Electronic Sports League. The findings validate the hypothesized IMOI model, and demonstrate the effects of anticipated emotions on shared motivation of team members. The results contribute to theory and have significant implications for the management of geographically distributed work groups.

Virtual Team Performance in a Highly Competitive Environment