Driving Performance Through Appreciative Inquiry

Abstract

Appreciative inquiry (AI) is an approach to organizational transformation that focuses on strengths and positivity rather than weaknesses and negativity. The chapter endeavours to relate how the theory of Pygmalion effect is interrelated with AI practices. The Pygmalion effect is a psychosomatic phenomenon wherein high expectations lead to enhanced performance in a given area. Attempts have been made to explain how the process or action of appreciative inquiry based on the theory of Pygmalion effect influences academic performance, innovative practices, and employee behaviour to a great extent. It has briefly touched upon the concept of appreciative education as well, which is a framework for delivering high quality education on both an individual and organizational level. It insists to link the positive energy of AI directly to any change agenda and asserts that changes, which were never thought possible in individuals, institutions, and organizations, will suddenly and democratically be mobilized.