Building on the Best: an introduction to Appreciative Inquiry in Health Care

Appreciative Inquiry (AI) has been described as “ as a form of action research that attempts to create new theories, ideas and images that aid in the developmental change of a system”. Cooperrider and Srivasta (1987)

It is seen as an “ an exciting way to embrace organizational change”, and is based on a number of key assumptions including :

“that every organization has something that works right – things that give it life when it is most alive, effective, successful, and connected in healthy ways to its stakeholders and communities. AI begins by identifying what is positive and connecting to it in ways that heighten energy and vision for change.”

“…AI recognizes that every organization is an open system that depends on its human capital to bring its vision and purpose to life.”… The outcome of an AI initiative is a long-term positive change in the organization.”

“… AI is important because it works to bring the whole organization together to build upon its positive core. AI encourages people to work together, to promote a better understanding of the human system, the heartbeat of the organization.” David Cooperrider et al (2003)

In Building on the Best: an introduction to Appreciative Inquiry in health care; John Edmonstone has edited a timely and illuminating account that:

• focuses on the underlying assumptions that differentiate the appreciative approach;
• introduces the “4D” Model of AI based on the sequence of Discover-Dream-Design-Deliver;
• demonstrates the value of AI in health care through 4 detailed case studies.