Multi-generational success through a research-based model
FamilyNavigator Assessment Tool
Creating and preserving a family legacy is one of the most significant and challenging responsibilities for a family business owner. The FamilyNavigator Tool fosters mutual understanding while assessing the organization's readiness for transition. Developed by family business expert Dean R. Fowler Ph.D. the tool is based on his research and highlights four Focus Areas which are critical for successful intergenerational family transitions.
What is the FamilyNavigator Tool?
Quantifiable Analysis of the Family Dynamics
Developed by Dean R. Fowler, Ph.D. a visionary in family business consulting, the FamilyNavigator tool quantifies the ecosystem of individual family members, the family, the family’s organization and the governance and estate plans that bind it together.
With a statistically validated 69-question assessment, FamilyNavigator uncovers key opportunities and risks related to succession and transition planning, helping families develop a clear, actionable roadmap for a successful transition.
FamilyNavigator provides measurable analytics of the interconnected dynamics between individual family members, the family unit, its business, and the governance and estate plans that support it.
Similar to a SWOT analysis, FamilyNavigator identifies the perceived strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats impacting both the family and its business.
empowering family businesses for generations
FamilyNavigator evaluates across four Focus Areas and three Competencies which measure and reflects a family’s progress towards transitional success. Thus providing unbiased analysis into family members across twelve competencies that are known to be foundational to success.
Family Dynamics
Culture & Communication
Purpose and Fulfillment
Roles & Relationships
Preparation & Development of Rising Generations
Maturity
Business Compentency
Compensation
Business Preservation & Growth
Business Structure
Non-Family Management
Business Strategy
Transition Planning
Family Leadership
Governance
Estate, Financial, & Tax Planning
strengthening businesses
for future generations
The FamilyNavigator empowers family members to collectively identify key strengths and opportunities.
These insights help uncover ways to maximize individual interests and talents while recognizing true competitive advantages and empowering family members with clarity, equal footing, and a deeper understanding of one another.
With this shared understanding, we guide families through complex alignment discussions, developing customized, actionable strategies that leverage existing strengths to strengthen areas that need further development.
Building on the foundation of FamilyNavigator’s discovery, alignment, and strategy, we then formalize ownership, leadership, control, and governance structures. This process creates a tailored roadmap for long-term success, ensuring both the family and its business thrive according to our clients’ unique vision.
