AI ignites positive change
Appreciative Inquiry generates extraordinary engagement
From one-on-one coaching to global corporations
A blend of whole system participatory methodologies
Appreciative inquiry is an affirming way to embrace organizational change.
It initiates long term positive change.
Appreciative Inquiry is a strength-based change methodology that searches for the best in people, their communities, workplaces and the world around them. It seeks to discover what is most enlivening in all that we do so that we feel most effective, successful and connected in healthy ways to each other, our colleagues, customers and communities. Appreciative Inquiry begins by identifying what works already and connects all the assets and positive qualities in ways that heighten energy and vision for change. This iterative cycle invites an inquiry into an “affirmative topic” and from the stories that are shared, the “positive core” is identified.
I invite you to read an overview of Appreciative Inquiry – Principles and Process.
The Affirmative Topic is what the community seeks to work toward: For example, “Positive Intergenerational Dialogues” rather than “Conflict between the Generations”. The Positive Core is the collective strengths and existing assets that are taken into the future in the second step, “Dream”. This means always, that the future is grounded in the real, lived experiences of the community, and not imposed by outsiders. We create situations where we invite people to remember when they experienced high point experiences, so they access naturally positive, resourceful states and can therefore be more creative and collaborative when it comes to finding solutions.
The applications of Appreciative Inquiry are vast and diverse, from one-on-one hourly coaching sessions to large scale summits of 3 to 4 days for 1000 + persons, co-located or virtual.
Examples of Appreciative Inquiry in Action
Remembering a peak experience when you felt this sense of flow, when you were at one with the experience and there were no boundaries between you and the activity.
Core capability and passion is the design and facilitation of participatory planning
and whole systems change – giving voice to all
Maximizing participation to optimize cultures of ownership and commitment
With over twenty years in human and organization development, my foundational philosophy is about maximizing participation to optimize cultures of ownership and commitment. From a blend of methodologies such as Search Conferencing, World Cafe, Open Space Technology and Appreciative Inquiry and Positivity, my principles and values are about authenticity in action. The ability to create environments of inclusion, empowerment, and generative learning gets me up everyday.
Foundational to my worldview is the science of positive psychology which proves to us the health benefits of positive emotions in delivering greater positive meaning and optimism into our lives, leading to increased understanding, greater tolerance of ourselves and others, and flourishing, heartfelt connections.
Cultures of flourishing ownership and commitment looks something like this:
All contributions are encouraged ● Everyone's voice is heard ● Direction and vision are clear so taking responsibity works ● Leaders empower others to be leaders ● Growth and learning is what makes it work ● Success is celebrated
To co-create collaboration and build relationships amidst diversity, complexity and multiplicity
Working in this way is relevant in any context, in any age group and any culture, whenever there is a strong desire for healthy, productive relationships and sustainable outcomes. For example:
Our conversations with inspiring leaders and everyday people show how positivity helps them live a full and meaningful life.
