Unlike most other assessments, the Enneagram is a complex, dynamic tool. It can be used in a simplistic ’what is your type?’ fashion, (which tends to over-simplify and can lead to stereotyping), but is most effective in its sophisticated application: as a map to enable personal or organisational development.
The structure of the Enneagram model consists of nine main types, 3 subtypes, 18 wings, and 3 triadic styles. This complex, yet easy-to-understand framework allows the Enneagram to be used across various contexts and multiple levels of maturity. It is differentiated from other psychometric assessments in the following key ways:
• As a developmental framework, the Enneagram does not merely take a snapshot of who you are, but also highlights your natural gifts – who you can be at your best.
• Rather than boxing people in, it illuminates new pathways for development.
• It doesn’t merely point out one’s external behaviour, preferences, strengths and styles. Instead, it acts like a personality X-Ray, exposing hidden patterns of belief, drives, fears and capacities.
• As a complex systems-based tool, the Enneagram can be applied on both an individual and organisational level.