Effect (Objective) → Cause (Subjective): The CDEF Framework for Coaching Consistency

January 01, 2025 by Admin

Effect (Objective) → Cause (Subjective): The CDEF Framework for Coaching Consistency

This blog explores an essential yet often overlooked aspect of coaching: the distinction between Effect (Objective) and Cause (Subjective) thinking. A common problem among coaches is their tendency to think subjectively first, allowing personal feelings or experience to cloud their initial analysis of a problem. This results in confusion and inconsistency, ultimately eroding trust from players, fans, and the broader footballing community. By understanding and applying the correct sequence—describing the Effect before explaining the Cause—coaches can establish clarity, structure, and consistency in their approach.

Imagine a coach walking onto the pitch, clipboard in hand, as if preparing to solve a crime scene. The players are scattered, the ball movement is chaotic, and the problem is glaring—or is it? Describing what went wrong (the Effect) is like being a detective at the scene, identifying the evidence objectively. Explaining why it happened (the Cause), however, is akin to a trial lawyer piecing together a narrative—a subjective interpretation based on the evidence. Both roles are crucial, but when the roles get muddled, the results can be disastrous. Understanding and applying this sequence of thinking can transform a coach’s approach to problem-solving.

The Problem: Thinking in the Wrong Sequence

A coach must first describe a problem objectively, as it appears (the Effect), before attempting to explain it subjectively (the Cause). While this might sound straightforward, many coaches struggle with this logical sequence. The reason? Most have been conditioned—whether through personal experiences or their environment—to think subjectively first. They rely on their experience rather than starting with objective knowledge. In essence, they zoom in on their feelings or assumptions before stepping back to assess the situation rationally.

This misstep creates confusion, inconsistency, and, ultimately, a lack of trust from players, fans, and the broader footballing community.

The Benefit of Thinking in the Right Sequence

Applying the sequence of objective description followed by subjective explanation allows coaches to:

  • Develop structured thinking patterns.

  • Be consistent in their decision-making and actions.

  • Earn the trust of players, fans, and the media.

  • Create a predictable and reliable environment within their club.

This logical approach benefits everyone involved with the coach, from the players on the pitch to the supporters in the stands.

Real-Life Example

Imagine a coach observing their team struggling to maintain possession. The objective description might identify the Effect: frequent loss of possession in central areas. Upon analysis, the coach explains the Cause: poor spacing and inadequate passing options for the player in possession. Using the CDEF framework, the coach develops targeted drills to address these issues and reinforces tactical awareness in training. This structured approach leads to measurable improvement over time.

The Problem with Subjective Thinking Coaches

Coaches who prioritize subjective thinking are often inconsistent. They struggle to deal with problems effectively because they lack clarity and confidence in their decision-making process. This confusion not only undermines their own confidence but also erodes trust from their players, club, and supporters. Without a structured approach, the coach becomes reactive, unpredictable, and unreliable.

The Solution: The CDEF Framework

To help coaches develop consistent and logical thinking, the CDEF framework was created. This framework guides coaches through the proper sequence of thinking, ensuring they approach problems systematically and objectively before adding subjective reasoning. Here’s how it works:

The CDEF Framework

  1. Communication A coach must first develop the ability to communicate effectively with their environment. This involves objectively describing what they observe—the Effect. By putting into words what they see without adding personal bias, the coach creates a clear and factual starting point for analysis.

  2. Decision Making Once the problem has been objectively described, the coach moves to explain it—the Cause. This subjective process involves evaluating why the observed Effect occurred. The coach then decides on a course of action to address the problem and implement a solution.

  3. Execution After deciding what needs to be done and how to apply the chosen solution, the next step is to execute the plan of action. This involves applying the solution in a practical and measurable way on the pitch. For example, if turnovers in midfield are identified as the Effect, the coach might execute targeted passing drills and positional awareness exercises during practice sessions.

  4. Fitness Over the course of a long season, a coach may encounter the same problems repeatedly. By consistently applying the CDEF framework, the coach develops what can be called “action fitness”—a form of experience grounded in knowledge. This reinforces the idea that knowledge must come before experience, further solidifying the coach’s reliability and effectiveness.

Visualizing the Framework

Below is a simple flowchart to visualize the CDEF framework:

  • Effect (Describe the Problem) → Cause (Explain the Problem) → Decision (What to Do & How to Do it) → Execution (Implement Solution) → Fitness (Sustain and Improve)

Common Pitfalls

  • Skipping Objective Description: Coaches jump straight to subjective explanations, often leading to misdiagnosis of the problem.

  • Emotional Influence: Allowing personal feelings to cloud judgment, which can result in inconsistent decision-making.

  • Lack of Structured Feedback: Failing to provide players with clear, actionable insights based on objective observations.

Practical Tips for Implementation

  • Keep a Coaching Journal: Regularly write down observations from matches and training sessions. Start with objective descriptions before moving to subjective explanations.

  • Use Video Analysis: Review game footage to identify Effects without the distraction of emotions.

  • Practice Communication Skills: Regularly articulate your observations to assistant coaches or players to refine your ability to describe problems objectively.

  • Create Drills Based on Analysis: Design training sessions that address identified Effects and their Causes.

Why the CDEF Framework Stands Out

The most important takeaway from this blog is that the CDEF framework applies not only to players but also to coaches. This dual applicability makes it unique among coaching methodologies. It provides a structured approach to both analyzing football and developing consistent coaching practices. No other coaching framework offers this level of versatility and innovation.

FAQ Section

1. Why is it important to describe the problem before explaining it? Describing the problem objectively ensures that you are starting with a clear and unbiased foundation. This allows you to identify the actual Effect without personal feelings clouding your judgment. It leads to more accurate explanations (Cause) and solutions.

2. Can the CDEF framework be applied by assistant coaches or analysts? Absolutely. The CDEF framework provides a universal structure that can be used by anyone involved in analyzing or addressing football problems, whether it’s the head coach, assistant coach, or performance analyst.

3. How does the CDEF framework build trust? By consistently applying the same structured approach to problem-solving, players, clubs, and supporters see the coach as reliable and methodical. This predictability fosters trust and confidence in the coach’s decisions.

4. What tools can help in describing problems objectively? Video analysis, performance statistics, and even a simple coaching journal are excellent tools to ensure objective descriptions. They provide concrete data points that can be used to support your observations.

Call to Action

If you’re a coach, reflect on your current approach. Do you start with objective descriptions, or do you jump straight to subjective explanations? Begin applying the CDEF framework in your next game or training session. Use it to build trust with your players, your club, and your supporters by demonstrating consistency and clarity.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been following my blogs, you’ll see that the CDEF framework has always been applied to players. However, this blog demonstrates that it is equally valuable for coaches. By adopting this framework, coaches can create an environment of clarity, consistency, and trust—qualities that benefit everyone involved in the game.

To learn more about the concepts of Effect and Cause, as well as the importance of describing and explaining, I encourage you to explore Raymond's books, including Analyzing Football, Football Coaching Theory, and other valuable works authored by him. Visit his website at https://www.fcevolution.com for more insights and resources.

Tags : FOOTBALL THEORY COACHING GAME INSIGHT