Open Space Technology

"Open Space Technology is a meeting methodology that enables individuals and groups to become more effective in work environments that are rapidly and constantly changing by developing their skills as lifelong learners and collaborative problem solvers. It creates the conditions so that the maximum potential of the individual and the organization can be realized. Open Space Technology captures the knowledge, experience and innovation in the organization that is not captured through less open processes."
~ Billie Alban and Barbara Bunker
Large Group Interventions, Jossey-Bass, 1997

Open Space Technology (OST) is a meeting approach developed by Harrison Owen of Potomac, Maryland, that runs on two fundamentals: passion and responsibility. Passion engages the people and responsibility ensures that the tasks get done. Participants are invited to set the agenda for the meeting based on what is important to them; choose discussion groups that have topics that they wish to explore with others; express themselves freely; and, participate as they choose, in small group discussion. Open space events last from one to three days depending on the desired outcomes, and can be used for groups from 5 to 1000 people. In this process people discover the capacity to operate as self-managed work teams with high levels of personal responsibility and leadership. It is particularly useful in situations characterized by high levels of complexity, diversity and conflict and with a decision time of yesterday.

Donna Clark has facilitated dozens of Open Space Technology meetings and is a member of the Open Space Institute of Canada. She received her training from Birgitt Williams as part of the Genuine Contact Program. Open Space Technology as taught by the Genuine Contact Program focuses equally on the pre and post meeting work as it does on the meeting itself, recognizing that the preparation for the meeting is essential for its success. Donna is also certified as a trainer in the Genuine Contact™ Program and can train you in working with Open Space Technology.

In both Whole Person Process Facilitation and Open Space Technology, we place great emphasis on working with our clients in the pre and post meeting phases, to ensure that the best results are achieved during the meeting itself.

Contact us to learn more about Open Space Technology and what it takes to bring an OST meeting into your organization or click here to find out how you can learn to facilitate OST meetings.