Inspiration Lab
This is the lab. It is the testing ground for innovation.
My Toolkit
Since its inception in 2007, iNSPiRED PRACTiCE has become synonymous with cutting-edge facilitation and process toolkits.
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Deep Democracy
Deep Democracy stands testament to the power of inclusion and diversity in REAL + SUSTAINED change.
In 2006, I discovered a powerful yet simple decision-making process called Deep Democracy. Developed by Greg and Myrna Lewis, Deep Democracy is a facilitation toolkit based on the work of psychologist, Arnie Mendell. The tools and techniques used in the Deep Democracy method enhance individual and team effectiveness; improve quality and inclusiveness in decision-making; get people to say what they need to say; and utilize challenges and conflicts as vehicles for growth.
Today, Deep Democracy is practiced in over 10 countries and numerous sectors. Since 2006, I have been trained in two levels of Deep Democracy (previously known as White/Yellow and Green Belts) and have used it as a method for conflict transformation, organizational change, community development, leadership training, and facilitation of group processes.
Deep Democracy offers a more meaningful way to ensure that minority views are not discounted in favour of the “getting everyone to agree” approach.
You can learn more here about how Deep Democracy has been integrated into iNSPiRED PRACTiCE’s work.
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Appreciative Inquiry
The best way to predict the future is to create it. ~ Peter Drucker
Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is an approach based on a strength-based paradigm versus a deficit-based paradigm. As a concept, AI fits seamlessly into iNSPiRED PRACTiCE because it aligns so well with the desire to generate a ”maximum positive impact”.
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Theory U (U-Process)
Leading from the future as it emerges.
The U Process developed by C. Otto Scharmer is based on a concept called “presencing”. A blend of the words “presence” and “sensing”, presencing refers to a heightened state of attention that allows individuals and groups to shift the inner place (intention) from which they function. When that shift happens, people begin to operate from a future space of possibility that they feel wants to emerge. The U Process offers a set of practices that enables a kind of deep seeing or “sensing” to happen collectively and across boundaries.
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Cafe Conversations
Café Conversations are built on the assumption that people already have within them the wisdom and creativity to address emerging challenges. The World Café method simply offers an opportunity for individuals to listen to understand, speak courageously, connect ideas to deeper questions and share insights.
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The iNSPiRED PRACTiCE Manifesto
(Yes I have one!)
What is a manifesto? Most people are familiar with manifestos in the political context which articulate a platform and set out a strategic direction. Others might be familiar with artistic manifestos and their use in generating shock value through extreme statements and questionnable logic. Yet others might know it as a declaration of principles or beliefs that serves as a guide to achieving a particular vision.
The iNSPiRED PRACTiCE manifesto is simply put – what I stand for.
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The Triple Triumph Model
Gandhi once referred to his efforts as “experiments in truth” because successful results could only be discovered through trial and error. I have envisioned an innovative business model and each day I practice it, I learn how to adapt and evolve. For iNSPiRED PRACTiCE, I designed a win-win-win business model. I call it the Triple Triumph Model! It is important to me and our clients that I ‘walk the talk’. This means demonstrating not only the feasibility but viability of a business that:
- Contributes positively to the social fabric of our communities;
- Protects the integrity of our natural environment; and,
- Generates meaningful opportunities to support our economy.
Here I offer a brief snapshot of the foundation on which I have built my enterprise.
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