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The Research

Research began in 1978 after reviewing the existing DISC instruments in the marketplace in both US and UK areas. Comparing instruments and conducting various pre-test / posttest designs we found considerable variability in both scoring and word-choice in most of the instruments. These are all 'ipsitive' instruments, i.e., self-report assessments, and therefore a variable social-desirability in word choice occurs. We found some DISC instruments scoring a word choice as one style, and another instrument scoring the same word as a different style. Therefore, in 1982, we conducted a series of factor analytic studies, allowing the computer to 'factor-load' the word-choice items with various combinations and additions of words. From that research we obtained a high degree of statistical significance and a robust array of words which provided substantial loadings into each of the scoring dimensions. A solid, reliable, and valid DISC instrument emerged.

The DISC paper instrument was used throughout the early 1980s in a variety of training and team-building settings. Software companies used it in both sales and customer service training, agri-business used it in similar settings, as did pharmaceutical and insurance companies. From those training arenas we harvested a rich database of information on personal style preferences. By conducting focus-groups of professionals from each style, (real-time at first, then using Internet technology later), we were able to fine-tune a remarkable list of agreed-upon traits of each of the preferred styles. From those focus groups emerged a full spectrum of text files in a variety of dimensions related to on-the-job development, motivation, and communication.

Now, with web technology, we continue to harvest information through on-going research and make the text files even more specific. While some DISC report providers use a text database of only four styles (DISC), others use a base of eight by adding the high and low of each trait. Still others have worked fifteen or sixteen combinations, and base their reports on those fields. The Pro-ActiveStyles reports use a base of thirty-two files, with a potential of forty-eight, depending on the individual's response pattern. That allows the Pro-ActiveStyles reports to provide the most specific information available for each individual's report. Pro-ActiveStyles is the only DISC report in the marketplace that provides information on facilitation and training styles as both a presenter and a learner in training venues.

Take the Pro-Active challenge by responding to our instrument, and comparing it against any DISC report in the marketplace. You'll find that the specificity of our report, and the practical nature of the printout to be superior to any report you have seen. This report system is one of the most fully-researched DISC report systems available, and the research behind these instruments spans nearly three decades, with tens of thousands of people in our database. The current version of the report was standardized using only 21st Century data, making it one of the most robust DISC instruments in the marketplace.

How do I use it?

The Pro-Active Styles questionnaire is simple to administer.

Once a person is setup, they complete the questionnaire online and results are instantly available, at the discretion of the system administrator.

Pro-ActiveStyles can be used:

  • as an awareness tool for use in Training Interventions
  • as an input to a Development process
  • as an input to a selection process where a job role requires specific behaviours
  • as an input to a Team Development process
  • as an input to analysing why meetings are not productive, and
  • for valuable insight into Conflict Resolution processes


Simply set the person up to complete the questionnaire, they will receive an email invitation sent by our system.

Once completed, you can review the results on the screen or print the report using our powerful online PDF engine.

The process is simple, and the report outstanding.

Companion Products

Pro-ActiveStyles shows the way people behave, Pro-ActiveValues shows why they behave that way.

Support Materials

  • Team Building Worksheets and Action Plans help workshop facilitators