Groups can also be sub-divided in two ways:

• Groups established to carry out specific tasks are known as task-based groups, such as a pressure groups.
• Groups which are based on the experiences of their members are known as experience-based groups, such as a self-help group.

The distinction between task-based groups and experience-based groups is important because it affects how the group is formed, organised, led and what roles the individual group members play.

Task-Based or Content Groups

These types of group focus on the achievement of specific goals and the individual members of the group work towards completing these goals.  These types of group are common in organisations and include groups set up to work on specific projects – perhaps the design of a new product.

Experience-Based or Process Groups

These types of group focus on the individual group members and how they interact, support and grow together, an example would be a group established to support people suffering from stress.