3.1.3 Leadership Versatility Index (LVI)
Purpose
The purpose of the Leadership Versatility Index (LVI) is to measure “versatility on two complementary pairs of leadership dimensions: forceful and enabling, and strategic and operational” (Kaplan & Kaiser, 2003).
The results of the Leadership Versatility Index (LVI) can be used by organizations, leadership development programs, and individual leaders. Organizations may use the results to inform talent development initiatives, succession planning, and leadership training programs. Leadership development professionals may use the results to provide targeted coaching and feedback to leaders, helping them enhance their leadership versatility and effectiveness.
Description
The instrument was developed by Robert E. Kaplan and Robert B. Kaiser and utilizes the 360-degree feedback method. The instrument is scored based on the feedback received from different raters (superiors, peers, subordinates, self). Results are typically analyzed to identify patterns, strengths, weaknesses, and areas for development in leadership versatility. The rating ranges from too little (-3) to too much (+3), with 0 being the ideal score. Takers of the test receive reports in two areas:
Strategic (includes direction, expansion, and innovation)
Operational (including execution, focus, and order).
Studies indicate robust internal reliability, ranging from the .80s to .90 for the versatilities on each of the two dualities (forceful/enabling and strategic/operational). According to Kaiser Leadership Solutions website, more than 21,596 participants took the test with 41.9% of test takers from US/Canada and 67% of participants at the executive or director level.
Access
The LVI can be accessed through Kaiser Leadership Solutions, LLC website at https://www.kaiserleadership.com/assessment-tools/lvi. The cost of the instrument is not specified on the website. Contact Kaiser Leadership Solutions directly for pricing information.
Reference
Kaplan, R. E., & Kaiser, R. B. (2003, July 15). Developing versatile leadership. MIT Sloan Management Review. https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/developing-versatile-leadership/
