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Lesson 4: 4-D Model, Discovery Phase
Framing the Questions
In essence, the success of the discovery phase hinges on developing questions that will illuminate the life-giving forces present within the system. This takes place through members telling their stories of successful performance and peak experiences. Lee (2010) provides a beneficial list of questions paraphrased below to consider when developing the appreciative interview protocol. Hearkening back to the Five Principles of AI, consider crafting questions appropriate to the desired outcome with the following in mind:
Constructionist
- What is our culture?
- What are our main topics of discussion?
- What is the climate?
- How can we create a shared future of possibilities?
- How do we interact?
- How do we build team?
Simultaneity
- What outcome are we seeking?
- How do we frame our topics?
- How do we respond when challenges arise?
- How do we communicate?
Poetic
- What is important to the team?
- What part of our history do we tell?
- How can we reframe to begin over?
- Are we strengths-focused or deficit-driven?
- What are the unofficial topics of workplace conversation?
Anticipatory
- Are my hopes and expectations for the organization aligned?
- What do I expect from my team?
- What changes if I reframe my thinking from problems to opportunities?
- What does the team wish for the organization?
Positive
- How can we inquire in order to build; what language do we need to use?
- How do we infuse the energy of possibilities into all that we discuss?
- How do we help all team members to envision the optimal, shared future of the organization?