What is generative communication?

“Generative communication is a process in which the focus is not on transferring information that already exists, but on creating new, shared meanings.”^¹

This sentence captures the essence of generative communication: an approach that goes beyond simply transmitting information and aims to create new forms of relationship, understanding and growth.

Communicating in a generative way means turning conversation into a creative process, capable of generating solutions, learning and connection between people.
It is not just about “talking to each other”, but about building together something that did not exist before.

The 5 pillars of generative communication

Per attivare una comunicazione generativa servono alcune condizioni di base: cinque pilastri che guidano l’ascolto, la presenza e la responsabilità nel dialogo.

1. Embrace complexity
   Reality is complex and constantly changing. Accepting this means transforming obstacles into positive energy and opportunities, without trying to control or oversimplify everything that happens.

2. Be present here and now
   Training presence means becoming aware of our sensations and reactions, while staying open to what emerges in the moment. It is in full focus mode that genuine insights and connections arise.

3. Ask questions
   Learn with and from others. Unlearn what is no longer useful.
   Question existing beliefs, explore new ideas, think in a critical and flexible way, and accept that truths change over time.

4. Welcome difficulties
   Divergences and differences — in values, contexts and ideas — are opportunities for growth, not obstacles to avoid. Listening to them opens up spaces for mutual learning.

5. Take responsibility
   We cannot control others, but we can choose the words, thoughts and actions that contribute to the dialogue.
   Responsibility is what builds healthy, long‑lasting relationships and allows us to stay true to our values, even when we encounter differences.^²

From theory to practice: our workshops

In September, at the Quark Hotel in Milan, we held the DUAL Learning Lab: “Facilitation and Generative Communication”, organised in collaboration with Otherwise.
During the workshop, participants explored first‑hand what it means to communicate in a generative way through Il Gioco Serio, a FAN – Facilitation Academy Nexus – methodology that uses playful dynamics to stimulate reflection, collaboration and awareness.

In the following weeks, Dual brought this approach inside Diatheva as well, with a workshop on generative communication designed to strengthen group cohesion and improve the quality of internal dialogue.
Through individual and group exercises, participants were able to experience the principles of this model in practice, experimenting with new ways of listening and engaging in conversation.

An approach that generates relationships and learning

At Dual, the Learning & Development Team uses generative communication as a tool to create relationships that evolve, innovate and last over time.

We believe in the value of spaces for authentic exchange, where trust becomes fertile ground for collaboration and where every conversation can give rise to new ideas and possibilities.

Notes

1. Luca Toschi, professor and researcher.
2. https://www.maryaferdig.com