Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD)

When to use Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD)

Use DAD when you need to address a recurring problem where conventional solutions have failed, and you suspect that some individuals or teams are already achieving better results despite similar constraints.

What it solves

Resistance to change, lack of buy-in for top-down solutions, failure to leverage existing knowledge within the group.

How to run Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD), step by step

1. Introduce the purpose of the DAD and the specific problem to be addressed. (5 min)
2. Ask the following seven questions to the whole group, allowing everyone to contribute: 1) How do you know when problem X is present? 2) How do you contribute effectively to solving problem X? 3) What prevents you from doing this or taking these actions all the time? 4) Do you know anybody who is able to frequently solve problem X and overcome barriers? 5) What behaviors or practices made their success possible? 6) Do you have any ideas? 7) What needs to be done to make it happen? Any volunteers? Who else needs to be involved? (15-60 min)
3. Have the recorder recap the key insights, action ideas, and identify individuals who need to be involved. (5 min)

Materials needed

• Paper or flip chart (or digital equivalent) for recording insights
• Markers
• Timer

Facilitator tips

• Encourage storytelling and active listening.
• Maintain eye contact and create an informal atmosphere.
• Focus on understanding the 'how' behind successful behaviors, not just the 'what'.

Common pitfalls

• Facilitator dominating the conversation: Actively encourage participation from everyone and avoid sharing your own solutions.
• Participants focusing on barriers rather than solutions: Redirect the conversation towards identifying positive actions and behaviors.

Variations

• Use TRIZ-like questions to identify practices that worsen the problem before exploring solutions.
• Adapt the questions for one-on-one conversations.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for smaller group discussions and a shared online document to record insights and action items.

What it produces

A list of actionable insights, identified positive deviant behaviors, and a plan for implementing new practices.

Origin

Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless, inspired by Jerry and Monique Sternin’s work in Positive Deviance. — source

Build a session around Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD)

METODIC places Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD) inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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