The Appreciative Summit is an important part of Mosaic Methods. As an event, it brings into the forefront how relationships and interconnectivity drives the organization forward at the root. The design is built upon conversations grounded in the theory and principles of Appreciative Inquiry (AI). The Appreciative Summit is one of the most effective methods for initializing whole systems change. Its “non-traditional” approach makes it well suited for community-building as much as work inside of organizations in that it does not leverage top-down narratives for change with assumptions of what is best for others. Instead the methodology crosses barriers of divisions, departments and neighborhoods to co-create solutions. Where there is change fatigue or suspicion, it’s wise to re-build trust through engagement.
Organizations and communities are often in positions to pursue change due to strong need for intervention at a moment in time. Stakeholders will bring differences to the conversation as well as pains. This does make positive change more challenging. Sustainable change is possible however when there is ability to manage differences and commonalities in the face of challenges. This is what through an Appreciative Summit, we will help stimulate.
References: Barrett, Frank J., and Ronald E. Fry. Appreciative Inquiry: A Positive Approach to Building Cooperative Capacity. Chagrin Falls, Ohio: Taos Institute Publications, 2005. Ludema, James D., ed. The Appreciative Inquiry Summit: A Practioner’s Guide for Leading Large-Group Change. San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler, 2003.