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 describes a wildly popular approach to organizational change that dramatically improves performance by encouraging people to study, discuss, learn from and build on what's working, rather than simply trying to fix what's not. Whitney and Trosten-Bloom use examples from many different types of organizations to illustrate Appreciative Inquiry (AI) in action. A how-to book but not a manual, The Power of Appreciative Inquiry describes the newest ideas and practices in the field of Appreciative Inquiry since its inception in 1985.
In updating the second edition, the authors conducted an appreciative inquiry with first edition readers, focusing especially on users in markets and universities. At the urging of these readers, the authors have included a new chapter on "sustaining positive change," as well as a host of new examples and other enhancements.
“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
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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