Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is an imaginative approach to organizational study and learning. It is intended to discover, understand and foster innovation in the internal social relationships and processes of the organization. Appreciative Inquiry is a paradigm shift (from a problem-focused model) for creating organizational change and expanding the realm of the possible in the arenas being explored.

Originating at the Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University by faculty members and graduate students, such as Suresh Srivastva, John Carter, David Cooperrider, Rita Williams and many others, Appreciative Inquiry brings a unique focus to the creation of highly functioning entities. In addition, practitioners such as Cathy Royal are also utilizing AI as a personal development model. Since an Appreciative Inquiry seeks to discover what works, what is healthy, and what allows people to be at their best it is adaptable to many places, situations, cultures and times.

Whether the inquiry is about organizations or individuals, a tangible result of the process is a series of propositions that describe the preferred future, based on the high moments of a repeatable past and present. Because the statements are grounded in real experience and history, people know how to repeat their success.

Participants in an inquiry have rediscovered dynamic memories of moments of success and as a group have created new, positive and affirming energy for the work at hand. The process is iterative and generative, and people leave with a sense of commitment and confidence in themselves and the future. They also know how to build more successes.

It is this energy and commitment that distinguishes the generative process of an Appreciative Inquiry. It is a living process that continues in new, daily choices and activities in which people engage in their personal and organizational lives.

Appreciative Inquiry: A Basic Description

Appreciative Inquiry: Four Basic Principles