Kraybill Conflict Style Inventory

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The Kraybill Conflict Style Inventory (KCSI) is a conflict style inventory developed by Ronald S. Kraybill in the 1980s. Like the widely-used Thomas Kilmann Inventory (TKI), it is built around the Mouton-Blake grid and identifies five styles of responding to conflict, calling them Directing, Harmonizing, Avoiding, Cooperating, and Compromising.

An unusual feature is that its Expanded Version is culturally sensitive. Users are instructed to identify whether they are from an individualistic (eg: white, Anglo North American) or collectivistic (eg: black, Hispanic, indigenous) culture, and are given differing instructions accordingly.

Strengths: Quick to administer and interpret. Questions are multiple choice which some users prefer. Its cultural sensitivity is a plus in some settings. Interpretation pages include tips for maximizing effectiveness of each style and two pages of questions for group discussion. Similarities to the widely-known Thomas Kilmann give the KCSI a familiar feel for some trainers. The supporting website offers a free trainer's guide.

Weaknesses: The KCSI is a relative newcomer in its full-fledged form, and is less widely known than the TKI. It has yet to undergo standardization which would make it more useful for certain research purposes.