During their last round of strategic planning, Rainbow Village decided to forgo the typical environmental scan in favor of bringing together their full range of stakeholders to take part in a process known as appreciative inquiry. In four steps—dis­covery, dreaming, designing, and destiny—they uncovered the needs, hopes, and plans of their en­tire community. “Once we determined our destiny, we were able to put together three-year goals, and came out with an incredible plan,” said CEO Nancy Yancey. “Appreciative inquiry really engaged ev­eryone in the process in a very exciting way.”

Has your organization used the appreciative inquiry process? Please comment below!