appreciative inquiry

Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a strength-based approach to growth and change that harnesses the best of what already IS, and builds on those strengths.

The fundamental principle of AI is that an organization grows and expands in the direction the people are focused on.

When people are focused on problems–identifying and solving, they will stay stuck in a problem–focused paradigm.

In turn, we know that when the focus is on strengths, and expanding those strengths, then the culture will be expansive and forward–focused. 

Appreciative Inquiry is used worldwide, by many large organizations.

Teams are guided through a process of DEFINITION, DISCOVERY, DREAM, DESIGN, and DESTINY. Finishing the process with a plan of action for the present and future.

Appreciate: to value, prize or revere.

Inquiry: Ask questions to discover, envision and dream with innovation about new possibilities—while in this present moment. 

The process of team-building through Appreciative Inquiry involves storytelling and exploring the best of what already exists, through team connection, and sharing.

In this workshop we will explore, discover and build on strengths. It’s about seeing the positivity, the beauty, and the profound in our lives, workplaces and communities.

In the philosophy of Appreciative Inquiry there is a strong focus on the present while dreaming about the future.

So it's very different than goal planning or writing a mission or vision statement.

The philosophy draws on present and past strengths of the organization and each team member.

It’s about uncovering and illuminating the best of what is!

How this works:

We will spend time with your team going through the process of exploring the 5 Ds of Appreciative Inquiry.  

The 5 Ds:

1. Definition – Choose the positive focus of the inquiry.

2. Discover – Inquire into exceptionally positive moments. Share the stories and life-giving forces.

3. Dream – Create a shared vision of a preferred future.

4. Destiny – Innovate and improvise ways to create that future.

5. Design – Make a plan!