Author: Paul Tolchinsky

Paul Tolchinsky, PhD, is an internationally recognized expert in organizational design, serving as the Managing Partner of Performance Development Associates, a consulting firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona.

With over 40 years of experience, he has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in applying Whole-Scale™ Change methodologies that integrate socio-technical principles and large group interventions. Dr. Tolchinsky's career began in the 1970s, where he worked alongside Eric Trist, a pioneer in socio-technical systems thinking. This foundational experience shaped his approach to organizational design, emphasizing the importance of aligning human and technical elements to facilitate meaningful change. He holds a PhD in Organization Behavior and Design from Purdue University and has consulted for major corporations worldwide, focusing on facilitating large system change, new plant designs, and organizational redesigns, especially in unionized environments.

Known for his inclusive and participative approach, Tolchinsky advocates for engaging the entire organizational system in change efforts to foster ownership and commitment. His expertise in large group interventions allows organizations to accelerate transformation while ensuring alignment and inclusivity. He has co-authored influential books such as "Unleashing the Magic in Organizations: The Whole-Scale Approach" and "Unleashing the Magic: A Toolkit," and his work is frequently cited in literature on change management and systems thinking.

Paul continues to be a sought-after speaker and educator, contributing to the advancement of organizational design practices globally. His recent engagements include co-facilitating workshops focused on transformational change and participating in podcasts where he shares insights on the critical role of systemic thinking in organizational success. Dr. Tolchinsky's legacy in organizational design is characterized by his commitment to empowering organizations to adapt and thrive in complex environments.