Open Space Technology
What does Open Space Technology stand for?
It is a highly simple, powerful group-work approach. It uses the often untapped experience and knowledge of all the participants; it breaks down formal barriers; it inspires
people to enthusiastically commit themselves to their ideas and be responsible for their actions.
The process is simple and spontaneous, and the energy created during the activity consistently materialises into outbreaks of enthusiasm in the group.
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For whom? Under what circumstances?
This approach is appropriate for organisations that must respond to a challenge, look into a set of issues where there is a sense of urgency. It is appropriate when you want to
take advantage of the initiative and the leadership of all participants in order to manage and adopt change. It is also appropriate where there is a potential for conflict
within the organisation or group.
However, Open Space Technology does not work when you think you know the answer to your question, when there is little room for change, when you lack time or when you refuse to
let the unexpected and people's initiative act upon you or decide you will not comply with these factors.
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Guarantees
At the close of an Open Space event, all the issues which participants are passionate about will have been examined, priorities will have been set and members will have
committed themselves and are committed to action.
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How?
The meeting focuses on a theme or topic, invitations are issued and the people that care and are passionate about the topic will arrive. Participants themselves select
on-site the discussion topics, whereas the Organiser defines the givens (e.g. stay within the organisation's mission), and participates on an equal basis. The method
incorporates a way to neutralize any attempts to dominate or block discussions.
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To ensure the success of an Open Space event, the Organiser must be prepared to support the various ideas, suggestions or action plan devised.
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Benefits
To hold and Open Space event is to get off the beaten track. It is a novel way of being, working, thinking and learning which may extend long after the meeting.
There is much more to Open Space Technology and we would be delighted to sit down with you and explore the possibilities for your organisation or community group: just call
or contact us.
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