Going with the flow.

* The Abilene Paradox, Second Edition, 2002, 26 min., CRM (800-421-0833, www.crm/earning.com), $895 (VHS). Leader guide, flipchart masters, worksheets.

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 this "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 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, 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 longer than most TV sitcoms! The video is well produced and has a high production quality and good acting.

CRM Learning should be commended for their attention to detail in this training package. First, they included the original version of The Abilene Paradox on the videotape, "for maximum flexibility." I was impressed with this consideration for organizations that might be used to the original and need to continue using it for various reasons. Other small but important details include the availability of closed captioning and both DVD and VHS formats.

Although this program is more focused on group decision making than leadership, leaders at all levels of an organization will benefit from its message. Decision making is a basic leadership competency, especially for those leaders who manage by consensus or rely on their teams for project work.

Cindy Huggett ([e-mail]) has over 10 years experience in the training and development field. She's currently a one-person training department for Kinetic Systems, Inc, with expertise in both technical and soft skills training programs.