MBTI vs DISC vs Big 5 of Strategy — Which Assessment Fits Today’s World?
MBTI vs DISC — and the Better Alternative for Today’s Professionals
MBTI and DISC are two of the most widely used personality assessments in the world.
-
MBTI sorts people into 16 personality types based on preferences.
-
DISC categorizes individuals into four behavioral styles based on how they interact with others.
Both tools are popular in team settings, coaching, and leadership programs. But here’s the challenge in today’s world:
Today’s professional environment is more complex, fast-moving, and strategy-driven than ever. Static personality types and behavioral categories no longer tell us enough.
That’s why many professionals are now turning to a more modern alternative: the Big 5 of Strategy.
What Are MBTI and DISC Best At?
MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator)
-
Based on Jungian theory
-
Classifies users into one of 16 types (e.g., INTJ, ESFP)
-
Popular for team dynamics and communication insight
-
Criticized for lack of scientific reliability
DISC
-
Based on observable behavior styles: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, Conscientiousness
-
Widely used in training and coaching
-
Focuses on how people show up
-
Offers little in terms of development or strategic depth
Why These Tools Fall Short in 2025
MBTI and DISC were built for a different era,when roles were more stable, development was optional, and complexity was lower.
Today’s professionals need tools that:
-
Reflect how people adapt, think, and deliver under pressure
-
Go beyond fixed types and instead reveal capability
-
Support growth, not just awareness
Big 5 of Strategy: A More Modern, Development-Focused Alternative
The Big 5 of Strategy isn’t a personality test, it’s a strategic capability model.
It assesses five core competencies that professionals need to thrive in complex environments:
Grasp the Present
Shape the Future
Move the System
Deliver the Results
Adapt to Change
Each profile is personalized, evidence-based, and built for development, not just description.
MBTI vs DISC vs Big 5 of Strategy At a Glance
Feature | MBTI | DISC | Big 5 of Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
Output | 16 fixed types | 4 style categories | Personalized strengths profile |
Built For | Awareness & reflection | Team interaction | Growth & performance |
Development Focus | None | None | Built-in and actionable |
Workplace Relevance | Medium | High for behavior | Very high – strategy-focused |
Scientific Basis | Low | Moderate | High – 1,200-person study |
Flexibility | Static | Static | Dynamic & situational |
Model Type | Personality typology | Behavioral styles | Strategic competencies |
Which Assessment Should You Choose in 2025?
It depends on your goal:
If You Need | Choose |
|---|---|
Personality reflection | MBTI |
Strategic capability, leadership growth, future readiness | Big 5 of Strategy |
Quick communication insights | DISC |
Why Professionals Are Switching
In a world where:
-
AI handles the routine
-
Roles evolve quickly
-
Complexity is constant
…static personality types aren’t enough. You need tools that help you think, adapt, and lead.
The Big 5 of Strategy gives you exactly that, with clear strengths, growth paths, and insight you can apply right away.
