Facilitation · Full-day workshops to multi-month consulting engagements

PACT™ 5-Step S.M.A.L.L. Process

The Polarity Approach to Continuity and Transformation (PACT) is a structured methodology for applying Polarity Thinking to organizational challenges. It provides a systematic workflow to move from initial awareness of a tension to active, measurable leverage of that tension.

When to use PACT™ 5-Step S.M.A.L.L. Process

Most effective during large-scale organizational change, strategy execution, or when teams are stuck in 'pendulum swings' between two extremes.

How PACT™ 5-Step S.M.A.L.L. Process works

Instructional designers can use this as a session flow for strategic planning or change management workshops, guiding participants through the visual mapping of tensions and the creation of early warning systems.

Phases of PACT™ 5-Step S.M.A.L.L. Process

  1. Scan
  2. Map
  3. Action
  4. Learn
  5. Leverage

Key principles

  • Continuous transformation
  • Stakeholder collaboration
  • Data-driven assessment
  • Proactive risk mitigation

Best for

  • Change Management
  • Strategy Development
  • Organization Design

Considerations

  • The 'Learn' and 'Leverage' phases require long-term commitment beyond the initial workshop
  • Success depends on the inclusion of diverse stakeholder perspectives during the 'Map' phase

Attribution & sources

Developed by Barry Johnson and Polarity Partnerships, LLC

Primary source

Design a session with PACT™ 5-Step S.M.A.L.L. Process

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