I'm guilty (though I consider it a positive quality) of using "we" when describing both success and failure.<p>First, I believe it builds trust in the department and not the individual. Conversely, failure is is spread among the team (and its resolution) as well.<p>Of course, this is important when communicating outwardly, and acts as a firewall from politics and tension. Giving kudos and warnings are still necessary, but, overall, team accomplishments, even via the "we" pronoun alone, are beneficial. (Let's be honest: those involved knew their role and weight)