Exploring the Relational Leadership Potential of Appreciative Inquiry: A Case Study

Abstract

This case explores the potential of Appreciative inquiry (AI) as a process for leadership development. As a relational approach, AI is poised to develop new leadership by encouraging upcoming generations to collectively envision novel and inspiring futures and engage in participatory action. Moreover, generative capacity and collaborative strength are identified as primary developmental variables in AI, the interconnection of which facilitates a concert of leadership and engenders change through collective imagination. To that end, this case draws from data derived from a case study of AI in a military setting to support this claim. Additionally, a basic programme model for AI-based leadership development and implications for future research and practice are presented for consideration.