The Orange Framework for Facilitating Difficult Dialogues
How Organizational Leaders, Researchers, and Practitioners, Can Increase Good Will and Improve Performance
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 12816831 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Lisa A Giacumo (0000-0002-3594-8606, George Mason University, corresponding author), Annetta R Dolowitz (University of Alabama) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 69 |
| Issue | 5 |
| Pages | 876-880 |
| Publication date | 2025-09-01 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | TechTrends (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 8756-3894 • E-ISSN: 1559-7075 |
| Publisher | Springer Science+Business Media (PUBLISHER • DE) |
| DOI | 10.1007/s11528-025-01133-6 |
| OpenAlex | W4414976177 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 23 |
In an era marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, organizational leaders, researchers, and practitioners are increasingly called upon to navigate difficult dialogues that can shape workplace culture and performance. This manuscript introduces the ORANGE framework—a practical, reflective tool designed to foster psychologically safe environments for addressing challenging conversations in adult learning and professional settings. ORANGE is an acronym for Observe, Respect, Assume, Navigate, Generate, and Empower, each representing a stage in a facilitative process that promotes empathy, shared understanding, and constructive problem-solving. Grounded in adult learning theory and supported by reflection prompts, the framework invites users to engage with interpersonal tensions through a lens of curiosity and collaboration rather than judgment or avoidance. This article outlines the theoretical foundations and practical applications of the ORANGE framework, shares lessons learned from leadership development contexts, and offers actionable guidance for instructional designers, faculty, administrators, and graduate students who aim to foster more effective and responsive learning and working environments. The discussion concludes with implications for advancing professional practice within organizations and educational institutions
Human Resource Development and Performance Evaluation · Organizational Change and Leadership · Organizational Learning and Leadership
| Highly cited | No |
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