The Power of Appreciative Inquiry describes the internationally embraced approach to organizational change that dramatically improves performance by engaging people to study, discuss, and build upon what's working - strengths - rather than trying to fix what's not. Diana Whitney and Amanda Trosten-Bloom, pioneers in the development and practice of Appreciative Inquiry (AI), provide a menu of eight results-oriented applications, along with case examples from a wide range of organizations to illustrate Appreciative Inquiry in action. A how-to book, this is the most authoritative and accessible guide to the newest ideas and practices in the field of Appreciative Inquiry since its inception in 1985. The second edition includes new examples, tools, and tips for using AI to create an enduring capacity for positive change, along with a totally new chapter on award-winning community applications of Appreciative Inquiry.
The Power of Appreciative Inquiry: A Practical Guide to Positive Change
Description
Table of Contents
Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgments
Chapter 1 – What is Appreciative Inquiry?
Chapter 2 – A Menu of Approaches to Appreciative Inquiry
Chapter 3 – Eight Principles of Appreciative Inquiry
Chapter 4 – Appreciative Inquiry in Action: From Origins to Current Practice
Chapter 5 – Getting Started
Chapter 6 – Affirmative Topic Choice
Chapter 7 – Discovery: Appreciative Interviews and More
Chapter 8 – Dream: Visions and Voices of the Future
Chapter 9 – Design: Giving Form to Values and Ideals
Chapter 10 – Destiny: Inspired Action and Improvisation
Chapter 11 – Appreciative Inquiry: A Process for Community Planning
Chapter 12 – Why Appreciative Inquiry Works
Notes
Index
About the Author
Author Description
Review Text
Results from Appreciative Inquiry at Green Mountain Coffee vastly exceeded my expectations. This marvelous book explains the process of AI and shares the excitement. It describes a process that truly will make the world a much better place.
Bob Stiller, founder and chair, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters
This is a must-read book for anyone engaged in social change, whether at the individual, family, communal or national level. Not only are we introduced to powerful theoretical ideas, but to practices that are now transforming people s lives around the world.
Ken Gergen, President, and Mary Gergen, Treasurer and Secretary, The Taos Institute
The Power of Appreciative Inquiry will inspire you to approach community planning in ways you ve never before considered. It will give you the knowledge, tools, and techniques you need to initiate positive and engaging planning processes that will move your community forward.
Gordon Pedrow, City Manager, Longmont, Colorado (2006 All-America City)
Appreciative Inquiry had significant and lasting impact as we went through a very large scale transformation of our business and culture. Even the employees that were most negative were transformed. The Power of Appreciative Inquiry is the handbook for those trying to drive businesses where they need to go during these difficult times.
Mary Peery, former Senior Vice President, Hewlett Packard Company