Abilene Paradox

Has fear lead you to say "yes" to a proposed group endeavor when "no" was your true response? It's a common dilemma and the reason many organizational efforts fail. This all-time favorite CRM Learning video program depicts individuals who support plans they really don't believe in--leading groups to meaningless, costly outcomes.

A re-make of CRM's Classic from many years back. The "Abilene Paradox" offers a fascinating discussion about why group agreement isn't always what it seems. I particularly liked the supporting examples and I think viewers will be able to relate and be highly entertained at the same time. While I do feel the video doesn't go far enough describing and demonstrating the behaviors necessary to avoid mismanaged agreement, it is still a poignant and entertaining video, well worth checking out.

PROS
• Interesting, thought provoking story and narrative
• Good supporting workplace examples

  reviewed by 4 people     Want to review? Login or Join Now

6 out of 9 people thought the following review was helpful:

   Cinthia Kleven(Training Coordinator - CNNBS)
I saw the first version of Abilene Paradox many years ago and was thrilled to see an updated version of the video available. I still think the story line holds up. It's engaging and thought provoking. Thanks.

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2 out of 2 people thought the following review was helpful:

   B. Johnson(President - Integrity Learning)
I love the Abilene Paradox. It is one of my favorites - a classic that will never loose relevance. I would suggest this video be essential viewing for any work group or team.

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   Susan Ewing(Capital Blue Cross)
The addition of the realistic "Project X" scenario adds to the value of this program and demonstrates that the Abilene Paradox can indeed occur in the business world. The next step is to balance the negative aspects (i.e. the evolution of the original trip to Abilene, Project X, and the wedding)with more constructive suggestions for how to abort the ill-fated trips. (I did not look at the trainer's materials or participant guides, so perhaps there is more on this subject there.)

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