Post date: May 14, 2011 6:01:48 PM
Appreciative Inquiry is a method of questioning and future design, that usually presents itself in 4 pieces–Discovery, Dream, Design, Destiny. The last key component is a focus of the questioning into a positive future. This includes a phrasing methodology such as "How can we be our best?" and "What is the ideal structure for communication on campus?"
This is a powerful format for organizations that might have common goals, or may have experienced a deep degree of friction, and burn-out and spiritual abrasion. Talking about problems, may sometimes seem productive, but often it take more of a psychological toll on the individuals involved. This is especially the case when participants have a core belief that "they are doing the right thing" and yet, nobody seems to be right, or getting anywhere.
When AI is used, the affirming structure presents a structure with which to see the commonalities beyond the individual processes. As a side effect, the process can be very energizing instead of demoralizing. However, it must generally be implemented with some structure or intervention design that should take place in a summit -- leaving time for reporting, immediate and visible feedback, and ideally, this would take almost a full day of interaction.
There is a summit to begin to be organized on Oct 3rd, watch this space for more information and usefulness.