Keeping morale up during maintenance periods can be a challenge, but it's also a great time to bring the team closer and focus on growth. I like to incorporate a few key strategies: organize small activities or group sessions, which can be a lighthearted way to strengthen relationships. Giving team members the chance to lead certain parts of the project or maintenance activities can be empowering and build their confidence. It also shows trust and recognition in their abilities. During these periods, it helps to set small, achievable goals and celebrate each one reached. This keeps everyone focused and gives a sense of accomplishment even in slower times.

Maintenance periods can be challenging due to the lack of novel developments in processes or materials. However, this time can be utilized to encourage members of the team. This is also a good time to check and make sure you have the right team members in the right positions on your team. Ask your team if they want to learn and explore other roles or processes. Helping individual team members find roles they are most passionate about can fast-track innovation after the maintenance period is over.

The maintenance team should view the maintenance period as a project, with a defined beginning and end, and goals to be achieved. For each goal established, the leader should promote a celebration, creating an environment of engagement and pursuit of results.

You can start by discussing the challenges and progress of the project, which foster transparency and trust. Also appreciate individual and team efforts to keep motivation high, and set small, achievable goals to celebrate milestones along the way. Work with your teammates on brainstorming sessions and problem-solving activities to engage everyone in finding solutions. Provide the necessary support and training to ensure the team feels equipped to tackle difficulties. Finally, team-building activities like games or workshops can help to strengthen relationships and lighten the atmosphere, creating a relaxed environment for new ideas to be formed.

The maintenance team should always carry out a routine check when handling such a project. Focus is the key point. They should always carry out research and development services in every project they are handling as a team thanks

Encourage decentralized planning for regular tasks, open and direct communications between team members for conflicts and problem resolution (peer-to-peer accountability), and building team relationships thru earned respect and goodwill.