Open Space Technology Introduction

An introduction to the idea of Open Space Technology.

An Open Space is a marketplace of ideas that works to provide an opportunity for each participant to learn exactly what they feel they need and connect people with similar desires so they can learn from each other.

Open Spaces begin without any predetermined agenda but work around a specific theme.

There are four guiding principles and one law

Principles
Whoever comes are the right people. In the break out groups you don’t need an expert or a teacher to learn from the group. Although all are welcome to join.
Whenever it starts is the right time. When the conversation begins let the ideas flow. Don’t force it or feel pressure to be someone you aren’t.
When it's over, it's over. We never know how long it will take to resolve an issue, once raised, but when the conversation is finished, move on to the next thing. Don't keep rehashing just because there's 30 minutes left in the session. Do the work, not the time.
Whatever happens is the only thing that could have, be prepared to be surprised! We have no idea what brilliant ideas or solutions will be found in each group. Expect to be surprised and be prepared to question your own assumptions.

The Law of Two Feet
If during the course of the gathering, any person finds themselves in a situation where they are neither learning nor contributing, they must use their feet and go to some more productive place. No ones feelings will be hurt and no time will be wasted.

In each group please select a recorder to take minutes of the discussion to share.

Open Spaces work best when we take the time to reflect honestly, share openly, and think critically. They are most successful for all participants when we trust the process and work earnestly to better ourselves and the community.

[michaelminns]

I have been trained by Harrison in the method of Open Space. I have used it several times with outstanding success. Australia should use it now the referendum of last week has failed to find a way forward.

[pr]

Great overview. Would have appreciated further reading in the profile.

Anybody got good links to share?

[YourNickIsTaken]

0:41 Introverts be like: i have a bunch of ideas but i have to thought about it before i speak up. So i rather stfu, because they told me IT IS OVER, so they don't care unless it is given within milliseconds.

[nextes]

As a person focused on production ... this makes me cry. You want to have a meeting ? Set an agenda, prepare and maybe study for it, make it as efficient as possible, try to deliver value from it ... these kindergarten games are fine as long as I am not paying for it and the company paying for them is not for profit, but they are still just games.