DISC or Enneagram, or Both?

Both DISC and Enneagram are tools to help understand how people communicate and behave individually. They each help us understand and empathize with those around us. Neither model is perfect, but each can play a role. DISC has a scientifically-proven, historically accurate approach that is most effective in businesses, while Enneagram is a more myth-driven process that is often popular in understanding personal relationship dynamics.

DISC was developed in the early 1900s by psychologist William Marston, the same man who also created Wonder Woman and the polygraph. It resembles other four-factor models that have been around for more than 2,000 years since Hippocrates described the “four temperaments”: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness and Conscientiousness. Enneagram dates back thousands of years, but its exact creation is unknown. It focuses primarily on deep motivators, fears and emotions.

DISC is the best tool for the professional world. It’s simple and accurate, and the most popular among coaches, trainers and consultants. When the application of behavior change is important – most often in sales, marketing, leadership and talent acquisition – DISC is the go-to. Enneagram is best used for self-help and counseling. It helps us understand each other, but should not be used as a predictor of someone’s behavior as it has not been studied scientifically. Each have their role in today’s society and can be used in those lanes quite effectively.