The purpose for this paper is three fold.

First, I discovered a relationship that brought two of the management concepts that I work with into alignment. As I explored that relationship I found that this simple two-dimensional arrangement allowed me to align several additional theories. And from there I discovered that this arrangement serves as a tool to analyze relationships as well as predict reactions. I then set out to explain this technique. I needed to conclude a book I was writing on Best Practices for Information Technology. From there I went on to write a short book on this technique which I have tentatively titled Seeking Alignment. I finished that work a few days ago and I encountered skepticism. Now this model accounts for that behavior and even offers advice on addressing it. New information is generally met by conflict. We need to reduce the conflict and then increase the flow of information in order to transform the situation. My first intent in writing this article is to help you understand this new technique by presenting the information in an educational format to allow you to ponder the significance of this information and then judge for yourself. My hope is that you will be able to formulate the concepts required to use this technique.

My second purpose in writing this article is to put this tool to use. I find this a fascinating technique and there are several puzzles that I want to try to solve with this technique. One of the most interesting is the hearing of Jesus in front of Pilate as described in the four gospels of the Christian Bible. I hope that this technique will allow me to better understand those interactions.

My third purpose in writing this article is to continue to test this technique. When I describe this approach to other people their skepticism impacts my belief. I interpret my findings, explain the value I see and tell them about this news. They attempt to pull me back from a transformed vantage point by downplaying the value or denying the relationships. At the same time, however, I sense the conflict and I begin to doubt my own findings. Thus the third purpose for this article is to test this technique on a set of text that is widely available. My goal is to describe a repeatable process and then ask others to validate my findings. I believe I have found something of value. I need your help. If this technique is as valuable as I think it is then it can change your life.

I value the gift of your time. I appreciate the time you have already put into reading this introduction. I hope that this technique is a gift that you learn to appreciate.