Introduction to Appreciative Inquiry

A Different Focus
Based on the simple idea that human beings move in the direction of what we ask about.

When we study our problems & conflicts, we often inadvertently magnify the very problems we had hoped to resolve.

When we study our highest values & achievements, i.e., best practices & worthy accomplishments, these tend to flourish.

A Different Orientation
Problem Solving Appreciative Inquiry

People and organizations are broken and need to be fixed. Creates a sense of threat, separation, defensiveness and deference to expert hierarchies.

People and organizations are full of capabilities, assets, resources, and strengths. These need to be located, affirmed, leveraged and encouraged.

Appreciative Inquiry

Cultivates hope Builds capacity Ignites collective appreciation & imagination Brings about positive change

Asks positive questions around affirmative topics Sparks constructive dialogue Inspires action

Appreciative Inquiry

Asks positive questions around affirmative topics

Cultivates hope Builds capacity Ignites collective appreciation & imagination Brings about positive change

Sparks constructive dialogue Inspires action

Appreciative Inquiry Model

Appreciative Inquiry Moves

Choose the positive as the focus of inquiry conversation Inquire into stories of life-giving energy Discover themes & patterns in the stories to compel further inquiry Create shared images of a preferred future

Collaborate on innovative ways to create that future

Appreciative Inquiry Advising