Griffing's diallel analysis is used in plant improvement programs to identify superior parents for crossing and for characterizing general, specific, and reciprocal effects. Eight different model/method combinations are commonly used in the analysis. The accuracy of the analysis is improved by using the appropriate model and method. In many instances, Model One with Method Three or Four is the most appropriate for obtaining unbiased estimates of combining abilities and gene action. The effective use of Griffing's analysis and the influence of several factors on this analysis are discussed. A personal computer program on this analysis is also made available to interested readers.