Definition
The OSKAR model is a coaching framework based on Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), adapted to the organizational context by Mark McKergow and Paul Jackson. Unlike GROW, which explores the current reality of the problem, OSKAR orients from the beginning toward the desired state and builds from the client's existing resources. Its five stages are: Outcome (desired result), Scaling (progress scale), Know-how (available resources and capabilities), Affirm + Action (affirm strengths and agree steps), and Review (review progress in subsequent sessions).
How it's used
Outcome clarifies the long-term result the client wants to achieve and the session objective. Unlike GROW, the scaling question can appear as early as this stage: "On a scale of 1 to 10, where are you now relative to that outcome?"
Scaling is OSKAR's methodological heart: the coach uses the scale repeatedly to measure perceived progress, explore what makes the number not lower (current resources), and what would make it go up one point (next steps).
Know-how explores the strengths, resources, and knowledge the client already has. The approach is appreciative: What have you done well so far? When has this worked, even partially?
Affirm + Action closes the session with genuine recognition of the client's progress and specific commitments for the following week.
Review at the start of each subsequent session reviews what worked, what improved on the scale, and what the client learned from the experience.
When to apply
OSKAR is especially useful when the client tends to get stuck in problem analysis or when problem-oriented approaches have generated resistance or frustration. It also works well in team coaching, facilitating retrospectives, and leading organizational change conversations.
Historical origin
OSKAR was developed by Mark McKergow and Paul Jackson as an adaptation of the SFBT (Solution-Focused Brief Therapy) model by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg to the organizational context. They presented it in The Solutions Focus (2002), which popularized the solution-oriented approach in coaching and business consulting.
How CauceOS supports it
CauceOS includes an OSKAR note template that records the scale at the beginning and end of the session, the resources identified in Know-how, and the Affirm+Action commitments. Comparing scales between sessions allows visualization of the client's progress over time.
Related terms
- GROW — alternative framework focused on goals and actions
- CLEAR — framework with greater contractual structure
- Executive coaching — typical context for OSKAR application
References
- McKergow, M., & Jackson, P. Z. (2002). The Solutions Focus. Nicholas Brealey.
- de Shazer, S. (1985). Keys to Solution in Brief Therapy. Norton.
- Berg, I. K., & Szabo, P. (2005). Brief Coaching for Lasting Solutions. Norton.