Appreciative Inquiry

Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Why appreciative inquiry matters

Appreciative inquiry is a practical, strengths-based way to develop strategy and lead change. Instead of starting with what is broken, it starts with what is working well – then uses those strengths, successes, and positive experiences as the foundation for direction and action.

What it helps you do

Discover strengths and opportunities

Appreciative inquiry surfaces strengths, capabilities, relationships, and past successes that can be amplified as part of the strategy.

Create a shared vision and goals

By focusing on what people value and want more of, appreciative inquiry helps create a compelling future direction and a practical anchor for priorities and trade-offs.

Increase engagement and commitment

Because it involves stakeholders in a strengths-based conversation, appreciative inquiry builds ownership and increases the likelihood that people will support and act on the strategy.

Accelerate action and learning

Appreciative inquiry moves quickly from aspiration to action by designing initiatives that build on strengths. This creates momentum and supports continuous learning and improvement.

Appreciative inquiry builds momentum by grounding strategy in strengths – increasing engagement, improving alignment, and supporting sustained execution.

Digital Knowledge Co courses show how to apply appreciative inquiry in a practical way – using structured approaches and reusable resources to unlock strengths, shape better conversations, and support positive change.

Canvas

Appreciative Inquiry Canvas

Use this to build strategy from strengths, stories, and shared aspiration.

Tip: Start with stories. The fastest way to find strengths is to ask for examples of when the organisation was at its best.

Get the editable version of this canvas - plus the full toolkit

Download this canvas in editable format, plus the full pack of Leadership Canvases. You’ll also get the complete Decision Tools pack as a bonus.

  • This canvas in editable format
  • The full leadership canvases pack
  • Guided and blank working versions
  • Facilitation notes and examples
  • Bonus: the complete decision tools pack
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