Appreciative Inquiry instead of Problem Solving
By · CommentsCould this be the missing link between Lean and Sales and Marketing?
Appreciative Inquiry (AI) focuses on growing or increasing in value through exploration and discovery. It is a positive approach to change. It compliments Lean Thinking when you view Lean from a Value perspective versus a Waste Perspective. It is also relevant on how you use Lean. If you use Lean on the supply side of the equation ridding yourself of waste might be the predominant thought. If you use Lean on the demand side, you have a tendency to view it more as a value producing mechanism.
Lean vs Appreciative Inquiry
- Lean you identify key problems vs AI you look for best experience or practice.
- Lean analyzes causes vs AI create future vision.
- Lean finds possible solutions vs AI shares values through dialogue.
- Lean you create action plans vs AI creates the future.
- Lean lends itself to linear understanding vs AI "leans" toward circular understanding.
So what are your thoughts?
- What happens when you take a positive approach to Lean?
- Does the same problem solving methods work?
- Can Appreciative Inquiry co-exist with Lean?
I was introduced to Appreciative Inquiry by fellow blogger, Ankit Patel who can be found at The Lean Way Consulting.
Related Information:
Slideshow, I used for reference:
Value can no longer be defined as What a Customer will pay for!
Evolution of Standard Work in my Sales and Marketing
Prototypes provide a Pathway for Connecting with Customers
Marketing with Lean Series – 4 Pack
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Lean Marketing House (More Info): A starting point for creating true iterative marketing cycles based on not only Lean principles but more importantly Customer Value. Recommended 1st reading of series.
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This series of books are about developing a continuous improvement culture in your sales and marketing and re-positioning your customer as the center of your organization. The further we are from our customers’ knowledge base the more effort has to be made to create a larger and larger supply of prospects. The ability to share and create knowledge with your customer is the strongest marketing tool possible. Successful Sales and Marketing are no longer trying to get their message out but developing strategies to get the message in.
Disclaimer: There is no silver bullet introduced in these books.
Related Information:
Lean Marketing House
Marketing with PDCA
Lean Engagement Team
Marketing with A3
