Expanding Possibilities

Feedback is about the interaction between performance, capability and learning.  

Learning that 'sticks' is self-directed. Feedback is the key to self-directed learning and is grounded in perceptions we and others have of our behaviour in a situational context. A feedback-rich culture is a high performing culture and provides a natural knowledge sharing environment in which teams can thrive.

We have developed a simple Self-Directed Learning Model (see opposite) that reflects the natural relationship between performance, capability , feedback and learning. We take the view that knowledge is the capacity to act in a context. Context is both external (what we experience from outside) and internal (what we give attention to from inside). We also understand that capability is personal (attitude, knowledge and skills) and procedural (processes, tools and information accessibility) so that feedback results in both personal development outcomes (role focused) and continuous improvement outcomes (team focused). 

This model seeks to align performance with the enterprise results context and the enterprise culture context. There is an inherent trension between these two contexts that are not properly considered when performance management approaches are implemented. There is often a narrow focus on the job and the person in it that creates a "straightjacket" for both the manager and the team member that does not reflect the reality of the different forces at play in generating results. We move the performance discussion from a focus on "doing your job" to one of "shaping your role" based on developing a feedback rich environment that encourages innovation and personal responsibility.

COGDELL consulting Asia Pacific design customisable on-line behaviour-based feedback tools and processes aimed at integrating contribution (performance) management and capability development through self-directed learning. Our tools and processes can be interfaced with your present human resource management systems or operate as stand alone support tools and processes for managers and team members to use in day to day interactions.

You can access and try our 'try it and see' feedback questionnaire at http://www.s-dltechnologies.cognition.net.au/  using the password 'feedback'.