This is a case study of a manager, Joe, and his team. Joe feels misunderstood in his good intentions, and suspects that others on the team are equally dissatisfied. Like many managers, Joe has a feeling things are not going well in his group, is not sure what might be undermining his situation, and doesn’t quite know what to do about it. Using characters that will seem all too familiar, the narrative asks and then answers twenty strategic questions that relate directly to the problems the team is having.
The members represent personalities found in almost all groups, who exhibit typical value conflicts that teams need to address. Through the use of questions and answers, by enumerating the problems the group is having, and offering potential solutions, this booklet showcases how SYMLOG can be utilized to expose the dynamics of the group. Concrete suggestions as to what steps can be taken to begin addressing the issues are given. The narrative is useful both to those wanting to explore the field diagram and its meaning more in depth, as well as to individuals preparing to receive reports generated from making a set of SYMLOG ratings.
The reader will come away with a better understanding of personality and interpersonal behavior, how social interaction can impact team dynamics, and ways to deal with common problems of acute conflict and chronic polarization in teams. The section on the importance of group discussion is one we can all do well to heed.
"Inside Joe's Group" is available in the following languages:
"Images" introduces a definition of leadership that is meant to apply in the context of leadership training in work groups, and provides a research-based benchmark against which leaders and group members can compare their own perceptions and consider ways to increase their leadership and teamwork effectiveness.
Through the use of the SYMLOG Field Diagram, the booklet explains research methods for measuring what is optimal for effective leadership and teamwork, and the specific characteristics of an optimal leader. Using five key images that individuals refer to and use to guide their leadership efforts, readers will have a greater understanding of how to assess and potentially change their behavior or coach others in order to optimize leadership and teamwork.
"Images" is available in the following languages:
"Hints" will introduce you to a powerful theory and method of measurement for learning about groups, group dynamics, teamwork, and leadership. Through the use of SYMLOG field diagrams, twenty-eight scenarios are given with specific suggestions on how to deal with inevitable problems in task-oriented groups.
"Hints" offers suggestions on understanding the forces at work in all groups, and offers potential options to unifying a polarized team. Using this succinct booklet will help you identify conditions for maximizing the potential for high performance teamwork in all groups, through the exercise of effective leadership and establishing a network of interconnecting coalitions if necessary.
Hints for Building Teamwork is available in the following languages:
Guide for teams and leaders to improve group dynamics.
Available in: American English, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish
Discussion of key personal concepts motivating effective leadership.
Available in: American English, Brazilian Portuguese, Dutch, French, Polish, Swedish
Easy-to-read case: a manager and his team, problems and solutions
Available in: American English, Brazilian Portuguese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Polish, Spanish, Swedish
The "Overview" gives a broad introduction to the SYMLOG theory, its origins, method of data capture, and display of results. The various aspects of this comprehensive theory of group dynamics and method of measurement and feedback are explained in a straightforward fashion. The booklet outlines the basic value conflicts present in all groups, roles that team leaders and members often take, and ways SYMLOG feedback can help in making team members more effective and their interaction more productive and satisfying.
Using this booklet as a way of introducing the myriad aspects of group dynamics, the reader will come away with a greater understanding of the basics of the SYMLOG theory, and how the methodology will aid in alleviating individual, organizational, and team problems. Consultants often use this booklet as an introduction to SYMLOG for prospective clients.
The "Overview" is available in the following languages:
This booklet presents a summary of research associated with SYMLOG reliability and validity. This booklet is written with two audiences in mind: Those people who have little experience with the topic of SYMLOG and who want to learn the basics, as well as those with considerable experience who want an extended set of references.
Most of the studies cited are quantitative and rely on standard statistical procedures. These studies were conducted either independently at universities or other research-based institutions in various parts of the world, or by SYMLOG Consulting Group. "Plain language" explanations are used to summarize the scientific findings for those not familiar with formal statistical analysis.
The research cited in the booklet is invaluable to any individual interested in the theoretical underpinnings of SYMLOG, or any client wanting clarification on the substance and relevance of the SYMLOG method.
"Reliability and Validity" is available in the following languages:
Main elements of the theory as portrayed in SYMLOG graphic displays
Available in: American English, Brazilian Portuguese, German, Italian, Polish, Spanish, Swedish
A summary of research associated with SYMLOG reliability and validity
Available in: American English, Brazilian Portuguese
by Robert F. Bales
The culmination of over a half century of work in the field of social psychology
by Robert F. Bales
Bales's seminal 1970 volume, available as a reprint
Edited by A. Paul Hare, et al
Represents the efforts of over 24 senior authors from many countries on a wide range of topics
by Robert F. Bales & Stephen P. Cohen
The SYMLOG Bible: nuances of the field theory, analysis of personality types, system of measurement
by Sharon E. Hare & A. Paul Hare
Collection: first-hand accounts by SYMLOG Consultants; research in social psychology, cross-cultural comparisons, diversity
by Richard B. Polley, A. Paul Hare, & Philip J. Stone
Collection: studies of managerial effectiveness to training applications, and content analysis of prayer
Edited by SYMLOG Consulting Group
Extensive and wide-ranging interview conducted with Dr. Bales
Value statements, for exercises in exploring attributions, conflict, collaboration
