[1][2] Gilbert applied his understanding of behavioral psychology to improve human performance at work and at school.
Consequences either increase (reinforcement) or decrease (punishment) the probability of future repetition of this behavior.
Conjointly using these two models in a 2x3 matrix (P = B × E to create a top and bottom row, and the ABC model to create three columns across each of the two rows), Gilbert identified six variables which he believed were necessary to improve human performance: information, resources, incentives, knowledge, capacity, and motives.
Gilbert's work has created much of the organizing framework upon which the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) is based.
The ISPI award the Thomas F. Gilbert Distinguished Professional Achievement Award, previously called the Outstanding Member and Distinguished Professional Achievement, that was renamed in 1996 in honor of Gilbert.