On any team, all responsibility for success and failures rests with:

• A. Each individual member of the team
• B. The leader of the team
• C. The team and its ability to work together
• D. The external consultant

Answer: (C)

Shared accountability in teamwork means outcomes depend on how well the group collaborates, communicates, and coordinates its efforts. While each member contributes and leadership shapes the environment, responsibility for success and failures rests with the team as a whole because performance comes from how well the team works together—clear goals, defined roles, open communication, mutual support, and good decision-making. When the team coordinates effectively, tasks get done and goals are met; when coordination breaks down, problems arise even if individual members are capable. An external consultant or a single leader can influence and guide improvements, but they don't own the ongoing outcomes—the team’s collective ability to work together does.