Transformational Leadership, Bernard Bass LO23629

J.C. Lelie (janlelie@wxs.nl)
Wed, 15 Dec 1999 15:11:32 +0100

Replying to LO23623 --

Hello Alanna,

> Somebody recently posted some helpful info on Bernard Bass' books re:
> transformational leadership. I wonder if you could kindly advise which
> book is good to get.

I have learned some things from Tichy and Devanna, The Transformational
Leader. To me it too "American", no harm intended. They communicate the
right things, but use a language that i do not feel comfortable to use.
They make a Drama in Three Stages out of change situation, connect
transformation to a leader - it is in the title, so it is no complaint -
and are rather focussed on revitalisation through a CEO.

I'm very fond of Will McWinney's "Paths of Change - Strategic Choices for
Organizations and Society", but it may be rather complex reading. He
covers every change situation, the required leadership styles and the
conflicts that may arise from those very styles. Also, he discusses in
length the different "great roads": revitalization as well as renaissance.

> I am currently doing a course in Environmental Studies and hope to put
> together an independent study course with several other people, in which
> we hope to function as an effective learning organization and design an
> interactive, holistic, education workshop for our peers.

I've developed a series of workshop methods using computer supported
brainstorming AND group interactions using coloured cards with the
statements gathered through this very brainstorm technique. The methods
are interactive, holistic and designed for learning (for instance learning
to apply system archetypes). I'm interested in your approach to your
challenge.

> Are Bass' books exceptional? Which one to choose?

Do not know. Sorry.

> PS - How do you folks keep up with these posts? It's such a sea of
> information! :)
>
> [Host's Note: Hi Alanna... The "sea of info" problem is not just
> here on LO... The secret is... Don't try to read everything.
> ..Rick]

My secret: respectfully following my intuition. Besides, you already
know. Or it will come (reveal itself) to you when the time is due.

You're welcome

Jan Lelie

-- 
With kind regards - met vriendelijke groeten,

Jan Lelie

Drs J.C. Lelie CPIM (Jan) LOGISENS - Sparring Partner in Logistical Development Mind@Work est. 1998 - Group Resolution Process Support Tel.: (+ 31) (0)70 3243475 or car: (+ 31)(0)65 4685114 http://www.mindatwork.nl and/or taoSystems: + 31 (0)30 6377973 - Mindatwork@taoNet.nl

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