The Process Communication Model®
The Process Communication Model®: An Effective Communication Framework
The Process Communication Model® is a communication framework developed by Taibi Kahler at NASA’s request. Its initial purpose was to train astronaut crews and strengthen their collaboration, even in high-pressure situations.
Today, the model is widely used to support constructive, smooth communication and to help individuals operate at their best in terms of motivation and well-being.
In this article, you will find an overview of the Process Communication Model®, links for further exploration, and a complete free training module.
This will give you a first impression of what you can learn and apply in a full Process Communication Model® training programme.
What Is the Process Communication Model?
What Is the Process Communication Model®?
The Process Communication Model® is derived from Transactional Analysis.
It describes six personality types (see clickable area 1 in the interactive diagram above) and how they function.
Each personality type has:
- Strengths and weaknesses
- A unique communication style, including:
- Its Communication Channel
- Its Perception
- Psychological Needs that must be met for the person to function well
- A stress mechanism, causes of stress, and negative reactions that appear under pressure.
The model is known under various names: “Process Com®”, “Process Communication®”, “Process Communication Management®”, “PCM”, “Process Communication Model®”.
In this article, we will use all these terms as synonyms referring to the Process Communication Model®.
What Is the Purpose of the Process Communication Model®?
The model helps explore:
- What each personality type needs in order to thrive (its Psychological Needs)
- The communication styles to use with each profile
- Strategies for more effective stress management
- Further information about the model’s applications is available in the FAQ at the bottom of the page.
The Process Communication Model® helps you interact with others in a way that supports constructive communication. It is also a valuable tool for taking care of yourself and reducing stress.
What Are the Principles of the Process Communication Model®?
When our Psychological Needs are not met, our behaviour becomes disrupted. We may become critical—either towards others or towards ourselves.
This attitude prevents constructive communication. It can even trigger a vicious cycle: one person’s stress activates negative reactions in the other, tensions rise, and interactions become counterproductive.
The Process Communication Model® provides keys to recognising and responding to each person’s Psychological Needs—your own and those of your conversation partner.
By applying these principles, it becomes possible to create an environment that supports smooth and effective communication.
