What defines a small group of individuals with complementary skills aiming for a common goal?

The term that best defines a small group of individuals with complementary skills aiming for a common goal is “team.” A team is typically characterized by its collaborative nature, where members work collectively to achieve a specific objective, relying on each other's diverse skills and expertise. This synergy among members enables the team to be more effective in reaching its goals than individuals working independently.

In contrast, a department refers to a broader organizational unit that encompasses a larger number of individuals and is focused on a specific area of expertise but may not necessarily be formed with a common goal in mind. A task force is generally established for a temporary purpose to address a specific issue, while a committee usually involves a group appointed to deliberate and make decisions on particular matters, rather than collaboratively pursuing a shared goal like a team. Thus, the concept of a team encapsulates the essence of individuals with complementary skills working together harmoniously towards a common objective.