NLP modeling (or modelling) is a process used in neuro-linguistic programming to discover and codify patterns of excellence, as demonstrated consistently by top performers in any field ideally via direct experience.

This type of modeling involves spending time mimicking and practicing (acting as if the modeler is the expert) until the modeler can replicate the patterns with some consistencey and precision. Once this has been achieved, the modeler then refines the target skills by removing certain features to eventually discover the essential features (behavioural patterns) that make the difference between average performace and top performance, thus building a learnable/transferable model.

NLP was created based on models of three famous psychiatrists:

• Milton H. Erickson
• Virginia Satir
• Fritz Perls

According to John Grinder (the co-founder of NLP) there are 5 steps to the NLP modeling process:

1. Identify an expert (outstanding performer) that you want to model. Create a well-formed outcome and life lines for this project.

2. Arrange to observe and mimic while the expert is in the field of expertise (direct access is the best option, then video, then high quality audio).

3. Without presence of the expert, the modeler practices until the same set of responses can be elicited with a similar of quality in a similar context. Removing certain features to discover the essential elements while practicing to find out what works, and what can be dropped out. At this stage the modeler may require to return to step 2 to observe and mimic some more before continuing.

4. Codify the model in some way via video, or other medium.

5. Teach the model to someone else. If the student can then elicit the same set of responses with the same or similar quality as the original expert then this is a workable model. If not, may have to return to step 2 or 3.

External links

• Description of modeling, its methods and uses
• Discussion forum for NLP, and modeling
• Modeling in human resources - 1997 paper
• Modeling in organizations