Photo Credit: © Fizkes | Dreamstime.com
Transforming concepts into reality is very much like combining music and words: one method of communication helps get the idea across. So, although the “toolboxing” technique featured in this column is original to the parks and recreation profession, it should not be a surprise that a similar approach--in a totally different field--was conceived in the early 1960s: Model-Netics.
The brainchild of Harold S. Hook, Model-Netics formally was introduced to the insurance industry in 1971, and continues to thrive today. Hook is noted for “earn[ing] the distinction of having served as president and chief executive officer of three major life-insurance companies before the age of 40,” by using Model-Netics to improve the performance of his companies, most recently the American General Corporation.
Breaking Barriers
Combining aspects of organization and management development--integrated through a focused communication structure--this learning system relies on 151 word or diagrammatic models that cover topics such as delegation, change management, staff training, motivation and development. “In short, the models function as guides to management, thought and action.”