Thinking about Model Coherency

This document dives into “Model Coherency,” a key dimension of human service quality assessed by PASS 3, a tool developed by Wolfensberger and Glenn in 1975. ​ It’s designed for those learning about PASS 3 in introductory workshops, emphasizing that true understanding comes from hands-on practice with a team. ​ Unlike other PASS 3 ratings, Model Coherency requires a holistic view of a program, challenging teams to articulate their values and assumptions while analyzing how well a program’s design aligns with the needs of the people it serves. ​

The paper outlines six essential tasks for evaluating Model Coherency, including describing the program’s defining features, understanding participant needs, assessing the fit between the program and those needs, identifying design problems, proposing principles for improvement, and summarizing short- and long-term implications. It encourages teams to use plain language, avoid jargon, and focus on the real-life experiences of the people served. ​

Readers will explore common issues in program design, such as mismatched staff competencies, segregating assumptions, and inadequate processes, along with their likely consequences, like low individualization, negative interpretations, and wasted resources. The document also provides guidance on identifying and managing these problems, offering principles to improve program quality by aligning services with culturally valued and technically effective approaches. ​

Ultimately, this paper is a practical guide for teams conducting PASS 3 evaluations, helping them reflect on their values, sharpen their understanding of human service programs, and contribute to meaningful improvements. It’s a must-read for anyone passionate about creating impactful, person-centered services.