What approach is used to identify and build upon an organization’s strengths?

The approach used to identify and build upon an organization’s strengths is Appreciative Inquiry (AI). This method focuses on exploring and amplifying the positive aspects of an organization rather than solely addressing problems or deficiencies. By engaging stakeholders in a collaborative process, AI facilitates the discovery of what works well, enabling organizations to build on existing strengths and capabilities.

This positive-oriented framework encourages organizations to envision their best possible future and develop actionable strategies based on what they already do effectively. It emphasizes a strengths-based perspective, fostering a culture of innovation and engagement while improving overall performance.

In contrast, the other approaches, while valuable in their own contexts, do not center specifically on strengths in the same way. Behavioral coaching tends to focus on observable actions and habits, cognitive restructuring involves changing thought patterns to influence behavior, and goal setting emphasizes specific objectives rather than organizational strengths. Thus, Appreciative Inquiry stands out as the most effective method for harnessing and enhancing an organization's inherent strengths.