SBI Model: Structuring Feedback for Clarity

Deliver objective feedback by separating situation, behavior, and impact.

Read the full framework

Applications

Difficult Conversations Feedback & Coaching Performance Management

Framework Card

SBI Model

Goal: Eliminate ambiguity and defensiveness by focusing strictly on observable behavior and its consequences.
Flow: Situation (Context) → Behavior (Action) → Impact (Result)
Best For: Timely Feedback; Reducing Defensiveness

Check-In

Struggling With Feedback?

Have you ever walked away from a feedback conversation wondering if the other person actually understood your point? Or perhaps, you've felt unsure how to frame your feedback without it sounding vague or overly critical.

Framework Logic

What this framework is

The SBI model (Situation-Behavior-Impact) is here to help.

This proven framework simplifies feedback delivery, making it clear, actionable, and meaningful.

Developed by the Center for Creative Leadership, is a structured approach to providing feedback.

It breaks feedback into three clear components:

Situation: When and where the observed behavior occurred.
Behavior: What the person did, described in specific terms.
Impact: How the behavior affected others or the situation.

This step-by-step method ensures your feedback is precise, focused, and easy to understand.

Deep Read

The 3 Components of SBI Model

Describe the Situation: Set the context, like, "During yesterday's team meeting..."

Highlight the Behavior: Be specific, e.g., "You interrupted several times during the discussion."

Explain the Impact: Share the outcome, e.g., "This caused others to hesitate in sharing their ideas."

Read the full framework