Allow US to introduce: Fred wells

This column is a continuation, in spirit, of the profile pieces Odin Westgaard started in the early 1980s in Performance Improvement Quarterly and more recently here in Performance Improvement. We think that these profiles give a glimpse into the minds—and hearts—of the people who have shaped the basics of our field. We hope that you find these profiles interesting and rewarding to read. Enjoy!     

Allow Me to Introduce. Thomas F. Gilbert

Tom Gilbert is often called the “Father of Performance Technology.” His models and techniques are taught and used worldwide. They serve as a foundation upon which other performance technologists have built their ideas. He is one of the giants upon whose shoulders we stand. Yet one of the most important aspects of his work is seldom discussed, his role as philosopher. Gilbert deliberately applied the methods of philosophy to develop the science of performance engineering. He sought to create vantage points from which we could simply and systematically make sense out of—-and improve—-human performance. The following article reveals qualities of the mind of the philosopher through the processes he's used in developing his ideas. This should enhance our understanding of Tom Gilbert. It should also demonstrate, through his example, the value of being able to change points of view. This ability is essential for anyone interested in engineering worthy performance.