The most important single element of success is to listen closely to what the customer perceives as his requirements and to have the will and ability to be responsive. J. E. Steiner |
Communications to key stakeholders should reflect the information priority needs of the individual’s personal style
Note: The following information comes from LIFO training that I received in the early 80's. The LIFO Model is based on four personal styles--each style prioritizes information needs differently.
Conservative Holding (Analytical) Style looks for reason and data.
How does it work? -- Who does what? -- What are the trade-offs?
Adaptive Dealing (Amiable) Style looks for relationships and harmony.
What are people's opinion? -- Is it disruptive? -- Can it be changed?
Supporting Giving (Expressive) Style looks for principles and recognition.
Is it fair? -- Is it the best? -- Can I help?
Control Taking (Driving) Style looks for results and action.
What are the bottom line opportunities? -- Who's in control? -- What's next?
The LIFO(life orientation) Method was developed in the late 1960's by Atkins and Katcher and introduced in their Human Factors in Management course at UCLA in 1968.
Everyone in the development and production line is both a customer and a supplier Unknown |
Engineering and project communications have multiple audiences and must respond to all four personal styles.
If you are having a hard time satisfying all their needs in a particular document (even when you use appendixes or attachments), consider using more than one document.
Your communications should always be
direct, relevant, targeted, organized, and appropriate for your audience.
