What is SYMLOG

SYMLOG is an acronym for a "SYstem for the Multiple Level Observation of Groups".

The system was initially developed through forty-five years of research in the Department of Psychology and Social Relations at Harvard University. One purpose for the in-depth studies was to better understand effective leadership, group dynamics, and superior team performance. The results of the investigation include a comprehensive theory of social interaction; a highly refined measurement system; and a set of precise tools for analyzing and improving effectiveness for people who live and work in groups of all sizes. The system is currently in use worldwide. In further detail,

SYMLOG is a highly refined and compact set of survey instruments …

The instruments contain 26 descriptive items which probe and assess key factors known to directly influence effectiveness. One form of the instrument (Individual and Organizational Values) probes current and optimal values while another form (Interpersonal Behaviors) identifies current and most effective behaviors for the specific situation. All assessment and custom feedback is tied to a research base made up of over 1,000,000 profiles acquired in 17 languages in over sixty countries.

SYMLOG is a method for repeated measures and ongoing feedback for continuous improvement …

Once a baseline has been established, the system can be used over and over to assess changes and highlight improvements. Repeated measures and feedback help to guide and sustain development efforts. When SYMLOG is applied properly, increasing effectiveness becomes the goal. Improvement becomes the standard. Higher performance is the outcome.

SYMLOG is a powerful theory and set of professional methods for improving performance …

The theory and methods have been subject to many years of careful research and various applications inside demanding corporations such as Microsoft, Toyota, IBM, Citibank, and Mercedes Benz in places as diverse as Japan, South Africa, Iran, Brunei, and Argentina. Over fifty universities have contributed to SYMLOG's exceptional results for improving leadership, teamwork, and organizational effectiveness.


How is SYMLOG currently used?

SYMLOG has been used in over sixty countries in 17 languages to provide integrated solutions to complex problems of social interaction.

Research Base

The SYMLOG research data bank contains over 1,000,000 profiles drawn from organizations in 17 languages in over sixty countries.


What is the SYMLOG Process?  How does it Work?  What are the Steps?

  1. Observation and Data Collection:
    SYMLOG is applicable at multiple levels.  It can be used for individual development (e.g., leadership training), for teambuilding (e.g., the team and leader together), and/or the organizational culture within which the team works and the leader interacts.  Depending on the level in focus, individuals, groups, or members of organizations make a set of SYMLOG ratings based on their experience. These ratings may involve perceptions of other people (e.g., teammates, individual managers) or the team itself, and/or the values shown in the culture of the organization.  They may also rate important concepts (e.g., Ideal values) that guide effective leadership, teamwork, and organizational performance.  In any case, data is collected and prepared for processing.
  2. Data Processing and Preparation of Feedback Reports
    Highly sophisticated software is used to process the data and produce customized "Bales Reports".  The reports are written by Robert F. Bales, Professor Emeritus Harvard University and based on over fifty years of his continuous research.  Bales has received several national professional awards for his distinguished contributions to the understanding of effective leadership, teamwork, and superior organizational performance.  His work adds considerable credibility to the reports.
  3. Personalized Confidential Feedback
    Extensive personalized reports are produced for feedback sessions facilitated by Certified SYMLOG Consultants.  Depending on the extent of the improvement program, it is possible to receive feedback simultaneously on an individual's perception of others, others' perceptions of an individual, the dynamics and norms of groups, and the components of the organizational culture.  This is often referred to as "360" feedback.
  4. Learning and Changing through Interaction
    Through discussion of the survey results (facilitated by the Certified SYMLOG Consultant), participants develop mutual understanding of the way they perceive themselves, others, and their organization. They learn what alterations are necessary in order to become more effective. They build commitment to needed strategic changes. They formulate personal, group, and organizational development plans to reach desired goals.  They also determine when to repeat the measures in order to guide and sustain the development process.


What are the Benefits for using SYMLOG?

The SYMLOG process greatly increases the probability that when individuals or groups try to improve, their efforts will be successful.  By using repeated assessments, SYMLOG ensures that learning will take place and adaptability to changing conditions will become an accepted process. SYMLOG offers a constructive way to turn insight into action. As a part of the SYMLOG process, individuals complete brief survey questionnaires which are used to produce detailed graphic displays and computer-generated reports for feedback. The key to SYMLOG's success is the reliability and accuracy of the feedback reports.