OPEN SPACE TECHNOLOGY
Open space technology is a facilitation method in which people can identify specific issues on a given topic, self-select into discussion groups, and work with the issue with people also concerned with that issue. It is a useful tool for any group of people who are really interested in exploring something that they all care deeply about. I learned that it is a fast, cheap and simple way to better and more productive meetings.
Open space technology was created by Harrison Owen in mid 1980s. He discovered that people attending his conferences loved the coffee breaks better than the formal presentations and plenary sessions.
The process includes 12 steps:
1. Complete the preparations
2. Welcome the participants
3. Create the space
4. State the theme
5. Describe the process
6. Name the 4 principles and the One Law
7. Invite people to write offerings and post them
8. Return to circle for final instructions
9. Invite people to sign up and enter the market place
10. Hold the space
11. Invite people to gather together for closure
12. Debrief with the client
The duration of this method depends on what the client wants to achieve, but it usually ranges from 1-3 days. The purpose of this method is for the members of the organization to get high learning, high play and high productivity but never pre-determined. I learned that it is a simple way of getting people and organizations moving.
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