Facilitation
We use Open Space Technology developed by Harrison Owen as our primary facilitation process. We use it in all areas of our consultancy. In organisations we have used it as a one off event, and as part of the ongoing process of organisational change, including strategic planning It is very effective!
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"At the very least, Open Space is a fast, cheap and simple way to better, more productive, meetings. At a deeper level, it enables people to experience a very different quality of organisation in which self-managed groups are the norm, leadership a constantly shared phenomenon, diversity becomes a resource to be used instead of a problem to be overcome, and personal empowerment a shared experience. It is also fun." - Harrison Owen |
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It releases the inherent creativity and leadership in people by inviting them to take responsibility for what they care about.
What Is Open Space Technology?
An Open Space Event is a method of organizing meetings, initiating and implementing change so that ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things, in record time.
This simple and powerful approach will help you:
- Organize a meeting of 5-500 (or more!) people, to quickly, cheaply and effectively address any issue or situation of real importance or immediate concern.
- Focus on the issues and opportunities that are most important, the assets and resources already on hand (even if they are few), and the people who can and must be involved in any successful outcome(s) or resolution(s).
- Support the movement and connection of people, information, resources and ideas that are related or required by the main issue or situation - to create (or renew) a genuine sense of community and collaboration.
- Identify and execute responsible, informed and immediate next steps, in many directions, on many levels, and by many different kinds of people, all at once - and to sustain this sort of action as long as is needed to address or resolve the issue or situation.
Open Space Technology will not help you take or maintain control of people, pacify the masses with the illusions of participation, or work very well when you already know what needs to be done and how to do it.
If, however, you find yourself in a situation that is overwhelming (or nearly so) in its complexity of tasks, diversity of people and needs, importance and potential for conflict, and undeniable urgency, then it is likely the best possible way to bring people together, focus on what matters, make essential connections, and do what must be done.
Further information about Open Space Technology can be found HERE.