Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is widely recognized as a cutting-edge approach to organizational development. It engages people in the client organization in creating and implementing strategies to achieve their shared vision of enhanced organizational effectiveness. AI focuses on highlighting individual and organizational core strengths and successes and opens the way for dialogue intent on discovering the highest potential of both.
Appreciative Inquiry is a particular way of asking questions and envisioning the future that fosters positive relationships and builds commitment and enthusiasm across all organizational levels. In addition, AI also mobilizes the will to execute plans and enhances a system’s capacity for collaboration, innovation and positive change.
Appreciative Inquiry utilizes a cycle of four processes:
- DISCOVERING: Identifying the most valued and effective elements in the organization.
- DREAMING: Creating a shared vision of the desired future – what optimal performance will look and feel like.
- DESIGNING: Innovating, planning and prioritizing ways to create that future.
- DELIVERING or DESTINY: Executing the plans and sustaining the energy for change.
The basic idea of Appreciative Inquiry is to build organizations around what works, rather than trying to fix what doesn’t. When people’s core strengths, energy and commitment are valued and maximized, and an open, collaborative approach is encouraged, the resulting positive work environment significantly enhances employee engagement and attracts and retains exceptional talent.
TAKE ACTION NOW: Why go it alone? Put your people first with the tools and knowledge to help them succeed. Your bottom line depends on it. Contact Mahara Consulting today to get on the road to making business success happen from the inside out.