Frequently Asked Questions

Generalism Basics

InGeneral website

Susanne Hogan and dsi Associates

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What is generalism?

Generalism is a philosophy and a set of skills designed to empower individuals and inform decisions.

At its core, generalism is a philosophy of empowerment. Its goal is to help non-specialists communicate and work effectively with technical specialists of all kinds—doctors, lawyers, engineers, architects, information technologists, even your auto mechanic. It’s an attitude that says “I may not be an expert in your field, but I am a valuable human being, I know what I want, and my priorities matter.” Generalism empowers people to approach specialists with confidence instead of being intimidated by them.

Generalism is also a set of skills and strategies for making well-informed decisions. For example, generalists have learned to distill a sea of data into clear, meaningful information. When faced with multiple options or a complex problem, they are able to see the “big picture.” They ask common-sense questions because they’re not afraid to sound stupid. These and other strategies help generalists “get to the point” and work successfully with specialists to achieve their goals.

What is a generalist?

A generalist—or more precisely, an “integrating generalist”—is someone who practices the principles of generalism. This website can help you learn to be a generalist.

Is being a generalist a job / profession / career?

Not necessarily, but it can be. Some professionals draw upon the principles and skills of generalism to provide consulting services in areas such as project management. In a sense, they could be considered “professional generalists.” However, the principles of generalism can be useful to anyone—business owners, homeowners, parents, students, public officials, executives, and employees in any job.

Isn’t a generalist just a “jack of all trades, master of none”?

In everyday lingo, “generalist” often refers to someone who knows a little about many things, but not much about anything. This website uses the term “generalist” as shorthand for “integrating generalist.” An integrating generalist has specific skills, such an exceptional ability to “put the pieces together” and bring clarity to complex situations. Those skills are valuable, and not everyone has them (although we at InGeneral believe anyone can learn them).

Do you have something against specialists?

Absolutely not! Specialists are invaluable, and we couldn’t get along without them. But they don’t always communicate well with non-specialists or specialists outside of their particular area of expertise. If you—the client, customer, user, or owner—don’t understand what specialists are saying, and if they don’t truly understand what you want and need, the results can be frustrating. The principles of generalism are designed to eliminate that frustration and help you get what you want.

Are there courses I can take to learn to be a generalist?

There are many places and ways to learn skills such as communication or project management. However, the concept of generalism has been largely unrecognized until now. To our knowledge, there is no course of instruction designed to teach you how to be a generalist. The resources on this website are meant to fill that gap.

What is InGeneral? What can I do at this site?

InGeneral is a website that offers free resources for learning the principles, skills, and strategies of generalism. You’ll find many short, informative articles here, and new ones are added frequently. If you need a suggestion for where to start, take a look at the welcome message for professionals, consumers, or students.

Is InGeneral the name of an organization or a business?

No. InGeneral is simply the name of the website. Its creator, Susanne Hogan , owns a construction management firm called dsi Associates Incorporated (www.dsiassociates.com), but the two are separate entities.

Where did the name “InGeneral” come from?

Although it looks like it simply means “in general,” the website’s name is actually short for “Integrating Generalist.” That’s the term Susanne Hogan coined to describe her profession and calling, which in turn led to the concept for this website.

Is there a membership fee for using this website?

No. There is no charge for reading the material on the InGeneral website.

How did you become a generalist?

I’ve had a long and varied career that led me to this point. Read this article to find out more.

Do you offer coaching to help people learn to be generalists?

Not currently, but I may consider offering it in the future. Please contact me if you would be interested.

I’m overseeing a major project that involves a lot of specialists. Can I hire you as a generalist to make sure it stays on track?

Yes, I offer owner’s representative services through dsi Associates. Take a look at the Services page to learn more.

What do you charge?

If you’re interested in services offered by dsi Associates, we’d be glad to provide a customized quote for you. There is no charge for the initial consultation. Contact us to get started.