The essential bestselling guide to designing and leading useful and effective group conversations, now completely revised and updated

Integrating over 60 years of research and development, this essential guide to group communication and participatory decision-making is an international bestseller.

The Art of Focused Conversation, a core component of the Technology of Participation (ToP) methodology by The Institute of Cultural Affairs, is vital for facilitators aiming to lead effective conversations and foster collaboration. The fully updated and revised edition includes:

• Preparation and guidelines for discussing challenging topics and facilitating a focused conversation
• A comprehensive overview of the ORID framework, made up of Objective, Reflective, Interpretive, and Decisional questions which guide a group to wise decisions
• In-depth analysis of how the underlying structure of ToP is based on applied phenomenology and is supported by the latest findings in neuroscience and social psychology
• New sections on diversity, equity, and inclusion; work-life balance; conflict resolution; and guiding focused conversations online
• 125 sample conversations that can be adapted to any situation.

Invigorate and elevate your group process with this invaluable resource— required reading for facilitators, leaders, educators, and anyone who wants to think clearly and guide thoughtful conversations.

R. Brian Stanfield was an inspired leader, who spent years helping others to become the same. As well as his decades of experience as an educator and researcher, he held the position of Director of Publications at the Canadian Institute of Cultural Affairs for many years. Brian was the author of 5 books focusing on the qualities required for successful progressive leadership and group facilitation, including The Workshop Book, The Art of Focused Conversation and The Courage to Lead.

R. Brian Stanfield's profile page

Jo Nelson worked with the Institute of Cultural Affairs for 50 years, leading participatory development projects and designing and teaching ToP facilitator training programs. She was a contributor to the first edition of The Art of Focused Conversation and is author of The Art of Focused Conversation for Schools and Getting to the Bottom of ToP. The author lives in Toronto, Ontario.

Jo Nelson's profile page

Lead a conversation that is focused, intentional, inclusive, and productive
—Martin Gilbraith, IAF Certified Professional Facilitator / Master, ICA Certified ToP Facilitator, Past Chair and board member, International Association of Facilitators

The gold standard in facilitation methods. I have used it in business for a quarter century.
—David G. Patterson, former 30-year CEO of Northwater Capital Management Inc., and founder and chair, Common Earth

This is a transformative guide for anyone dedicated to mastering impactful conversations.
—Manal Sayid, Lead Facilitator, Sayid Consulting; Regional Director, North America, International Association of Facilitators (IAF); and Board Member, Technology of Participation Network (ToP Network)

Jump-start your ability to apply this method and create conversations that matter.
—Harold Sahkoskwaientha Tarbell (Akwesasne Mohawk), ICAA Board Member, Tarbell Facilitation Network

A great addition to any facilitator's resource library.
—T. Duncan Holmes, certified ToP facilitator (CTF) and ToP trainer, and past Director, ICA Canada

Expanded by over one hundred pages, this edition offers state-of-the-art theoretical and practical knowledge on effective conversations.
—Robertson Work, nonfiction author and social/ecological activist, former UNDP principal policy advisor, NYU Wagner professor, and ICA executive director in four countries

I highly recommend this book to anyone who regularly engages with children, youth, or adults and would like to find ways to take conversations to a deeper level with empathy and thoughtfulness.
—Jennifer Chin, visual artist and educator