This presentation will focus on the science behind integrated pest management (IPM) and how those who provide pest management services can transition into a holistic IPM approach. Integrated approaches begin at the time of installation, and include biological control, proper cultural practices, choosing the right plants for the right site, the responsible use of pesticides and fertilizer, and planting diversity in terms of species and texture. These are not just buzzwords but have real biological activity and implications. However, our best tool as plant health managers is our knowledge, but this does not mean that simply memorizing facts about plants and insects will make us excellent plant health managers. Rather, the best managers all share a similar thought process: how they think through situations and arrive at problem-solving solutions. Therefore, this presentation will not only focus on the tools and tactics of IPM but how to approach plant health through with IPM way of thinking.