We just read Analyzing Performance Problems, or, You Really Oughta Wanna by Robert Mager and Peter Pipe, one of six books in the classic “Mager’s Six Pack” series. In this article, we’ll give you a short book review. We have another article if you’d like to study his performance problem analysis method in more detail.
Before we begin, know that this is part of a series of articles looking at the books and ideas in Mager’s Six Pack. So far, we’ve also got articles on the following:
With that out of way, let’s get to this book review.
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The book by Mager and Pipe outlines a simple and orderly method you can use to determine the cause of a performance problem at work and find the best solution(s) for that problem.
We’ve described that method in more detail in our Closing Skill Gaps article, so click that link you just passed by if you want to read about the method in depth. But read on for a more superficial understanding.
In short, the method helps you answer the following questions about a perceived performance problem at work:
Now that you know what the book’s about and have a general idea of the method, let’s turn to the fun part of the review. Does it teach worthwhile stuff? Was it a fun read? Would I recommend it?
Yes, yes, and yes.
To elaborate on that a bit, he provides a method that would be useful for analyzing a performance problem and finding the right solution. So that’s answers the question about “worthwhile stuff.” On the “fun read” angle, all of Mager’s books are pretty fun and this is no exception. As he does in other books, in this one Mager and Pipe keeps it short, uses a conversational writing style, and is funny. And those are just some of the reasons why my answer to the “would you recommend it” question is a big YES.
Jeff Dalto, Senior Learning & Performance Improvement Manager
Jeff is a learning designer and performance improvement specialist with more than 20 years in learning and development, 15+ of which have been spent working in manufacturing, industrial, and architecture, engineering & construction training. Jeff has worked side-by-side with more than 50 companies as they implemented online training. Jeff is an advocate for using evidence-based training practices and is currently completing a Masters degree in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning from Boise State University. He writes the Vector Solutions | Convergence Training blog and invites you to connect with him on LinkedIn.
