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Open Space Technology
ABOUT OPEN SPACE
Open Space is a self-organising way of facilitating communication/action which supports the inherent creativity and leadership in people. It was invented by Harrison Owen who trained Warwick Powell and Bruce Holland in its use. Harrison's book is called "Open Space Technology A Users Guide".
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How to hold meetings of up to 500 people at one time and give everyone a say |
Open Space makes great use of sitting in circles and something magic happens as a result.
When to use Open Space
- Where conflict is holding back the ability to change
- Where the situation is complex
- Where there is a high degree of diversity
- Where there is an urgent need to make speedy decisions
- Where all stakeholders are needed for good decisions to be made
- Where you have no preconceived notion of what the outcomes should be.
Probable outcomes of Open Space
- Builds energy, commitment and shared leadership
- Participants accept responsibility for what does or doesn't happen
- Action plans and recommendations emerge from discussions.
- You create a record of the entire proceedings as you go along
How it works
The Law of Two Feet means you take responsibility for what you care about -- standing up for that and using your own two feet to move to whatever place you can best contribute and/or learn.
Four Principles apply to how you navigate in open space
1. Whoever comes are the right people
Whoever is attracted to the same discussion are the people who can contribute most to that discussion because they really care.
2. Whatever happens is the only thing that could happen
We are all limited by our own pasts and expectations. This principle acknowledges we'll all do our best, in the present time and place.
3. When it starts is the right time
The creative spirit has its own time, and our task is to make our best contribution and enter the flow of creativity when it starts.
4. When it's over, it's over
Creativity has its own rhythm. So do groups.
How Open Space works when there is conflict
Sometimes there are differences in power and authority. Open Space levels the playing field so people who do not normally have an opportunity to talk with each other can meet around their shared passions.
Group size
Open Space accommodates groups from 5 to 500 people. It can be run for a couple of hours to 3 or more days; consecutively or over time; at one site or at multiple sites connected by computer and/or phone and video. The longer it runs, the more learning and depth happens.
How Virtual Group supports Open Space Technology
- The usual way we use Open Space is to facilitate large group meetings using the principles of Open Space Technology.
- We train facilitators in the principles and practice of Open Space
- We document findings of Open Space and work with followup groups to execute their findings.
Product support
This product has been developed and is supported by Warwick Powell and Bruce Holland with help where required from other members of the Virtual Group Business Specialists. Bruce is a specialist in Open Space Wellington, nationally and internationally. He specialises in public sector organisations and other large private sector organisations.
Guarantee
All work undertaken by Bruce Holland is guaranteed. If at the end of the program the client doesn’t feel that they have received value for money, they may adjust the bill and pay an amount equal to the value they feel they received.
Next step
For more information about how you can use our Culture Program give the Virtual Manager a call or ring Bruce Holland direct.
Bruce Holland
Phone +644 570 0727
Freephone 0800 4 virtual
Bruce.holland@virtual.co.nz.
Key words: Leadership, leadership development, leadership management, leadership training, leadership program, leadership skills
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