Quarterly Newsletter Post 3 of 4 (Continued)

3: The Five Truths (John Spalding)

S&G Endeavors is a consulting firm that delivers quality services allowing individuals, groups, and organizations to create strategies, programs, and ideas in order to achieve their fullest potential. We use several models to help us guide people through the process of change. One of those models is the concept of “Whole System Transformation” or the 5 Truths that impact any type of change effort. The research and analysis of this work was conducted by Steve Cady and Kathie Dannemiller in their study of the impact of organization development initiatives. Steve Cady is a professor at BGSU and Kathie, who passed away in December of 2003, was a founder of a process called “Whole Scale Change™”- a consulting effort designed to help organizations envision and plan for their future. Together, Cady and Dannemiller found five “Truths” that are present in any type of change, and began using it as a model to help organizations achieve “Whole System Transformation”.

“The term ’Whole System Transformation’ is more than a change that affects the entire system; it means that the entire system is involved in creating itself anew.”, write Cady and Dannemiller, in their chapter for the book In Practicing OD, by W. Rothwell, R. Sullivan, and G.W. McLean. When we work with our coaching clients, committee groups, and organizations, we use this model to assist them in evaluating the current state of their system and envisioning the future they wish to see. We are going to outline the components of the model, give you the original definitions of the model, and then unveil our ideas on the theory.

System- Transformation connects all things within and around the system.
Our Definition-- The entity that is involved in our process.

We help our clients to objectively, yet thoroughly, look at their system. You, your group, or your company will be able to realize a clear picture of where you are and where you are going.

Purpose- The transformation is clearly purposeful.
Our Definition-- What is your reason for being?

Every individual, group, and organization has a purpose. Sometimes the purpose for a group or company can change or evolve into something different; we help you make that transition. For our coaching clients, we help you design your individual purpose, with the hope of helping you achieve your dreams.

Journey- The transformation is a dynamic journey.
Our Definition- What steps do you take towards your purpose? Where is your system headed?

Change is not easy. It can be a long process that has several roadblocks and detours if the transition plan is not effective. We help you, or your group, map out a journey to achieve your purpose.

Theory- Transformation is guided by theory.
Our Definition- What influences your decisions?

We all have several theories that we use in our daily life. The best business practices, your beliefs about how the world works, different education levels and skill sets allow people to see the world through different lenses. We help you bring all of those lenses together to guide your system.

Values- Transformation is shaped by values.
Our Definition- How do you want others to look at you?

As an Individual, group, or organization, what are your values? Do you know? Do you live them? Do they matter? We hold values in high regard, but we do not tell you which ones to have. We help you to uncover the main values that will help your system achieve its purpose, and we help you ensure that you are living your own values through the work you are doing.

There may be several reasons people need assistance with managing change. In companies, for example, a merger and acquisition is a perfect opportunity to use strategic planning and system transformation. For political groups or committees, after the elections are concluded and new people have taken office, there is a definite need to look at the new group, look at where you are, and plan for where you want to be by the end of the term. For individuals and business leaders, a job change, a mid-life crisis, or a desire to do something different or better, could be a need for some advanced coaching on how to take your life to the next step.

The Whole System Transformation Model reveals the components that are usually involved in successful change efforts. At S&G, we use our process to manage people in a way that creates positive and effective plans for the future. In doing so, we give our clients another way to connect with themselves and the people around them. Does that equate to better business? A successful venture through a change process could be more than better business; it could mean a better world.