The POWERS of the Solution Focus
An Effective Approach to Individual and Organizational Development © 2003, Coert Visser and Gwenda Schlundt Bodien In an earlier article we outlined a highly effective approach to coaching, the solution focus. We use this approach not only in management coaching but also in organizational consultancy and training. It is highly simple, respectful and effective. This article is not intended to replace some of the fine books there are about solution-focused consultancy (see below). Instead, we have searched for a very simple and brief description of the solution focus that is accessible and easy to remember. We came up with acronym POWERS, which stands for: P - problems are acknowledged but NOT analyzed O - outcomes desired are specified W - where are you now on the scale? E - exceptions to the problem are keys to solutions R - relationships are enhanced and made productive S - small steps forward leads to larger change Below we explain the POWERS acronym letter by letter. P - problems a...