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A classic revisited.


* The Abilene Paradox The Abilene paradox is a paradox in which a group of people collectively decide on a course of action that is counter to the preferences of any of the individuals in the group. , 2nd ed., video, 2002, 22 min., CRM (Customer Relationship Management) An integrated information system that is used to plan, schedule and control the presales and postsales activities in an organization.  Learning (800-421-0833, www.crmlearning.com), video $895; DVD DVD: see digital versatile disc.
DVD
 in full digital video disc or digital versatile disc

Type of optical disc. The DVD represents the second generation of compact-disc (CD) technology.
 $995. Leader guide, participant workbook work·book  
n.
1. A booklet containing problems and exercises that a student may work directly on the pages.

2. A manual containing operating instructions, as for an appliance or machine.

3.
 (10 copies), PowerPoint slides.

Have you ever stopped to think about how you got to where you are now? What series of decisions you made that brought you to this point, this place, or this situation? Were you active and deliberate in your decision making, or did you simply "go with the flow"?

If your passive participation in group decisions led you to your destination, then you may be a victim of the Abilene Paradox. This video training program examines the "paradox of mismanaged agreement," which often occurs when groups make decisions.

We learn about the Abilene Paradox on a hot summer day on the front porch porch

Roofed structure, usually open at front and sides, projecting from the face of a building and used to protect an entrance. If colonnaded, it may be called a portico.
 of a home in Texas. Dr. Jerry Harvey recalls a family visit that turns into a road trip to Abilene. Upon returning home, the family discovers that no one wanted to go to Abilene in the first place, but everyone went along for the ride. Through the events of that particular day, viewers learn about the Abilene Paradox and how to recognize when this type of group decision happens. The concepts are reinforced through two other stories, a corporate situation and a young couple's pending nuptials. The video sequences are logical and easy to follow, and Dr. Harvey's narration explains everything well. We learn what the Abilene Paradox means, how it happens, the reasons behind it, and most importantly Adv. 1. most importantly - above and beyond all other consideration; "above all, you must be independent"
above all, most especially
, how to avoid it.

From an entertainment standpoint, I thoroughly enjoyed the video story. Although the content is the most important part of any training program, it's hard to argue with the importance of entertainment value, especially in a 26-minute video that is longer than most of today's TV sitcoms The perspective and/or examples in this article do not represent a world-wide view. Please [ edit] this page to improve its geographical balance. ! The video is well produced and has a high-quality production quality and convincing acting.

CRM Learning should be commended for their attention to detail in this training package. The complete package includes the video program (the old version is also on the cassette and DVD), facilitator PowerPoint slides on CD-ROM CD-ROM: see compact disc.
CD-ROM
 in full compact disc read-only memory

Type of computer storage medium that is read optically (e.g., by a laser).
, a poster to hang on the classroom wall, Post-It notepads for participants (illustrated with the phrase "Skip the Trip!"), and reminder cards. The spiralbound leader guide is thorough, and even a brand new trainer can follow the directions to deliver a high-impact training program. The guide outlines a four-hour session with five group exercises plus three optional activities for a longer workshop. The participant workbook rounds out the program and includes worksheets for each group activity.

Recommendation

Reflecting on your own life or the life of your organization, you will probably find examples of the Abilene Paradox. If this video training program will help your organization "skip the trip" to Abilene at least once, then it will be worth your while. The fact that CRM updated this program to a second edition illustrates the program's popularity and its first run success. I believe the second run will be just as successful.
The Abilene Paradox, second Edition product rating

Holds viewer interest    Outstanding
Acting/Presenting        Outstanding
Diversity                Very good
Production quality       Outstanding
Value of content         Very good
Instructional value      Very good
Value for the money      Very good
Overall rating           Outstanding


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Copyright 2004, Gale Group. All rights reserved. Gale Group is a Thomson Corporation Company.

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Title Annotation:Review; The Abilene Paradox, 2nd ed
Author:Huggett, Cindy
Publication:Training Media Review
Article Type:Video Recording Review
Date:Jan 1, 2004
Words:567
Previous Article:Online comparative ratings.
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