Representative Ryan in my opinion offers more than ideology. In transformational type communications, I (and most other change agents) look for following elements: measurable goals; a clear vision; guiding values; compelling reasons for change; and prioritized actions. My analysis of Representative Ryan’s remarks found that all of these elements are present. They were presented briefly in a clear and logical manner, and in a comforting tone. It combined timeless elements with focused actions. While not a charismatic speaker, Representative’s Ryan’s remarks have a transformational aspect to them although many might disagree with the transformation he proposes. Many may agree with how Representative Ryan proposes achieving his vision, but it is difficult to argue with his goals which include, “… unshackle our economy and create millions of new jobs and opportunities for all people, of every background, to succeed and prosper … “to pass onto our children a nation that is stronger, more vibrant, more decent and better than the one we inherited.” The shorter length of his speech and focused nature make its messages accessible to large number of people.

President Obama is a gifted and accomplished orator, but there are some issues with the delivery of his speech, its form and content. President Obama had a chance to leave more of an impact by including the major elements of transformational speeches in a shorter speech spoken from the heart rather than from the teleprompter. All of his details could have been included in a written document for Congress and he could have chosen to deliver comments in shorter form from bulleted comments than allowed the following elements to stand out: measurable goals; a clear vision; guiding values; compelling reasons for change; and prioritized actions. By engaging these points in spoken rather than read remarks he could have reached into the hearts and minds of more viewers.

“Win the Future” lacks transformational elements. The future never comes, and his measures for success are not fully developed and therefore are only partially measurable. President Obama’s vision for America could be sharpen and started in a few memorable sentences. This is facilitated by clearly stating the values that will drive all of his administration’s values supported by focused compelling reasons and focus on prioritized actions. Out-innovate, out-educate, out-build, and take responsibility for our deficit and reform of our government are intriguing, but get lost in all the other rhetoric that his includes.

President Obama uses some powerful images and phrases which get lost in the totality of his comments. Long speeches, like this one, contribute to people having difficulty remembering and supporting what is proposed.

What comes next is most important. Successful transformational leaders that I have known understand the important of individual and collective initiatives; the power of unleashing creativity and initiative; and seeking consensus. I’m not at all sure that efforts will be made to seek consensus, which is the one mechanism which will ultimately open the way for his initiatives. My guess is that we will be timid about approaching the impending deficit crisis; and there isn’t nearly enough work being done on a comprehensive energy approach which helps get us to a desired end state. The world situation clearly demonstrates that unless a nation’s financial house is in order, little or nothing else can be achieved. Most experts that I know understand that an orderly transition is needed to shift from current energy approaches to alternative ones. In this case a little more pragmatism might actually lead to the more idealistic goals in a shorter period of time.