Grounded action is the application and extension of grounded theory [a research method developed by Dr. Barney G. Glaser and Dr. Anselm L. Strauss in the mid 1960s] for the purpose of designing and implementing practical actions such as interventions, program designs, action models, social and organizational policies, and change initiatives. Grounded action was designed to address the complexity and multi-dimensionality of organizational and social problems and issues. It extends grounded theory beyond its original purpose of generating theory that is grounded in data by providing a means of developing actions that are also grounded (systematically derived from a grounded theory). (p. 1)

Effective change agency and optimal, sustainable change can be facilitated only via the understanding of key basic social processes. Grounded Action addresses the full context of change as a social and organizational issue, why it has been problematic, what it means to engage in interventions, what it means to be a true change agent as well as the ethics of research and change agency. It considers the systems aspects of social phenomena, social problems and organizations. Grounded Action generates a wider understanding of the multidimensional systems nature of social and organizational problems and builds knowledge of how to formulate creative, workable, effective interventions. It develops specialized skill and knowledge to enhance the ability of finding common ground and getting to a place where all points of view are relevant, valuable and valid in an increasingly diverse society.