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.

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.

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.

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.