Leadership literature is full of frameworks. But models only create impact if people can apply them. Visuals bridge that gap: they turn theory into practice. Here are five classic models every manager should know—plus the visuals that make them practical in daily leadership, teamwork, and change.
5 leadership & team models made practical with visuals
1. Covey’s 7 Habits – personal leadership and effectiveness
- Use when: teams or individuals seek direction and balance.
- Visual impact: makes the 7 habits concrete and discussable.
- See visual the visual of Covey's 7 Habits
2. Tuckman’s Team Development Stages – understanding group dynamics
- Use when: new teams form or change.
- Visual impact: normalizes “storming” and shows how to move toward “performing.”
- See visual of Tuckman's Team Development Stages
3. Lencioni’s 5 Dysfunctions – strengthening team foundations
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Use when: trust or accountability are missing.
Building trust doesn't happen by accident - it grows in an environment of openess and psychological safety. Learn how to make that visible in your team with our article Psychological Safety Made Visual - Visual impact: pyramid makes dysfunctions visible without blame.
- See visual of Lencioni's 5 Dysfunctions
4. Kübler-Ross Change Curve – navigating emotions in change
- Use when: people resist change or feel uncertain.
- Visual impact: maps emotional stages, creates empathy and dialogue.
- See visual of Kübler-Ross Change Curve
5. Logical Levels (Bateson/Dilts) – deepening reflection and alignment
- Use when: personal or organizational change is needed.
- Visual impact: shows the layers from environment to identity and purpose.
- See visual of the Logical Levels
How visuals turn models into action
- Structure discussions → faster decisions.
- Create a common language → reduce confusion.
- Make progress visible → motivate follow-through.
Practical facilitation tips
- Pick one visual per session—focus drives depth.
- Ask clear questions (“Where are we now?” “What’s next?”).
- Always end with owners and first actions.
Want to use these models in your own leadership or team practice? Explore our Leadership visuals, Change & Transformation visuals, and Team Development visuals.
