In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership development, two models stand out for their emphasis on adaptability, shared responsibility, and contextual awareness: the Centre for Creative Leadership’s (CCL) DAC framework and TeachingHorse’s Diamond Model of Shared Leadership.
As TeachingHorse executive, Schelli Whitehouse says, “DAC is the ‘What’, The Diamond Model is the ‘How’.
Both models offer unique perspectives yet converge on key principles that are essential for effective leadership in today’s complex environments. I observed the synergy of the two models play out first-hand in Singapore last week where TeachingHorse provided the Diamond Model experience for one of CCL’s global clients.
Understanding the DAC Framework
The DAC model—Direction, Alignment, Commitment—redefines leadership not as a trait or position but as a collective process that enables groups to achieve shared outcomes. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, leadership occurs when:
- Direction: There is agreement on what the group is trying to achieve.
- Alignment: There is coordination of work in service of the shared direction.
- Commitment: People are making the success of the collective a personal priority.
This framework emphasizes that leadership is about creating the conditions that foster these three elements, enabling groups to function cohesively and effectively.
Exploring the Diamond Model of Shared Leadership
Developed by June Gunther, CEO and Founder of TeachingHorse, the Diamond Model draws inspiration from the natural leadership dynamics observed in horse herds. It identifies four core capabilities essential for shared leadership:
- Attention: Being acutely aware of oneself, others, and the environment to detect subtle shifts and respond appropriately.
- Direction: Providing clear guidance on the path forward, including vision and immediate next steps.
- Energy: Setting a pace that reflects reality, ensuring the team neither overreacts nor underreacts to changes.
- Congruence: Aligning one’s internal intentions with external actions to build trust and authenticity.
This model underscores the importance of shared leadership, where each team member contributes to the group’s health, harmony, and unity.
Working with horses – yes, real horses – brings this concept to life in real-time for the participants. There is no hiding from a horse – they sense any incongruence in an individual or within a group and notice the slightest change in their environment and respond. The learning is often profound and has lasting impact.
Intersecting Principles
While originating from different contexts, the DAC framework and the Diamond Model share several commonalities:
- Collective Leadership: Both models shift the focus from individual leaders to collective processes and shared responsibilities.
- Contextual Awareness: Emphasizing the importance of understanding and responding to environmental cues.
- Alignment and Congruence: Highlighting the need for consistency between intentions and actions to build trust and commitment.
- Adaptive Energy Management: Recognizing the necessity of modulating energy and pace to suit the team’s needs and external circumstances.
Complementary Applications
Integrating insights from both models can enhance leadership development programs:
- Strategic Implementation: Use the DAC framework to establish clear goals (Direction), coordinate efforts (Alignment), and foster dedication (Commitment).
- Operational Execution: Apply the Diamond Model to maintain situational awareness (Attention), provide guidance (Direction), manage team dynamics (Energy), and ensure authenticity (Congruence).
By combining these approaches, organizations can cultivate leaders who are both strategically focused and attuned to the nuances of team dynamics.
In conclusion, the DAC framework and the Diamond Model of Shared Leadership offer valuable, complementary perspectives on effective leadership. By embracing the principles of shared responsibility, contextual awareness, and authentic engagement, leaders can navigate complexity with agility and foster cohesive, resilient teams.
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