Reviewed 12/2008

In what I consider a ground breaking book, Dr. Scharmer challenges us to see the world in new ways, step back from our traditional methods of analysis, problem solving, learning from past experiences and challenges us to use our innate creative skills to design for the future, using a sociologic approach which takes traditional methods and suggests that as Albert Einstein once said, “We can not solve a problem using the same thought process that caused it to develop.” In a book that combines a conceptual approach tempered with examples from both organizational and personal experience, the author identifies a method, the U method, which I believe has great value. Focusing initially on gaining an understanding of how our “blind spot” affects our ability to gain a larger perspective on the nature of the issues that confront us, he elegantly lays out the U. Starting with an identified problem we need to “descend the U” by focusing (identifying opportunities, alternative solutions, recognizing unique approaches from others than ourselves), broadening (listening respectively, opening up to alternative philosophies and thoughts), and deepening (challenges assumptions, creating true dialogue, engaging in difficult conversations) which will lead to a “shared purpose” and “common ground.” Only then should we begin the design of solutions which we hope will be of lasting impact.

Within a short review it is difficult to delineate the depth and richness of the model. Asking us to have “open minds, open hearts, open will” sounds like a campfire chant but has true meaning when imbedded in the elements of the U. Theory U can help inform the design of multi-stakeholder dialogues that are critical to forging alliances and collaborative relationships which are required by transformational efforts. I am beginning to use the principles and concepts from Scharmer’s work, as we attempt to deal with the major redesign of health care delivery which is needed. Although after reading this book, you may question whether redesign is going deep enough in the U.

For those who believe we need new approaches, new cultural thinking, and have resonated with the work of Peter Senge and others, this is a must read. Even if you’ve not been previously engaged, while ponderous (approximately 480 pages in length), this book will impact how you approach the complex, unstable world we now live in. Now as I gather us around the campfire and sing “Kumbaya” I look forward to your thoughts and feedback from this fascinating book.