SIRIUS INFORMATION RESOURCES YOU CAN USE	MARYLU DYKSTRA WWW.SIRIUSRESOURCES.NET
IF YOU GET THIS The Thin Book of Appreciative Inquiry | a book by Sue Annis Hammond | ISBN 0-9665363-1-9
YOU CAN USE THIS
KEY POINTS DESCRIPTION SO WHAT What is it? “Appreciate Inquiry is that in every organization something works and change can be managed through the identification of what works, and the analysis of how to do more of what works.” Appreciative Inquiry, as indicated by its name is appreciating and inquiring what works in an organization. Doing more of what works will yield more (as a proactive and positive approach) than trying to do less of the bad. Why is it important? Hammond considers it a “moving target”, a thought process and every participant makes a contribution by re-creating the goals. Traditional approaches use the problem diagnosis with a focus on what is wrong, thus emphasizing the negative. Looking for what works allows a tangible future vision based on the high points of the organization. By grounding the organization in real events and experiences, people will be able to repeat their success. How do you use it? Understand the power (positive and negative) of assumptions within the organization. (see page 15) Share examples of what it feels like to be treated with dignity and respect. Learn how to ask the right questions in the right way. Learn about and how to use provocative propositions. You gather information in a new way and it yields information at a greater depth. Processing the information in a format that is understandable is required once data is amassed. “Provocative propositions describe an ideal state of circumstances that will foster the climate that creates the possibilities to do more of what works.”
TO APPLY THESE
Be prepared to practice, practice, practice. This is a different approach to inquiries and “problem solving”. Consider the success factors that have made your organization achieve its goals. Start with small group dialogues to try on the methods. Consider developing training on the methods and how to roll it out through the organization.
THE NEXT STEP This is really a thin book…fast to read and understand. There are practice ideas that can be explored in small or large groups. Consider adding 15 minutes to a staff meeting to relish a success and create a template for new successes. Regardless of your organization’s business, building on success factors will make for a positive and welcome approach to growth.
Sirius Resources creates and facilitates business and marketing strategy sessions to ensure you define and reach your goals with actionable ideas and objectives. Marylu Dykstra 616.868.6306 mdykstra@siriusresources.net