Open Space Technology (OST)
Open Space Technology is a self-organizing approach to facilitate group discussions around a central theme, allowing participants to propose and lead sessions based on their interests and expertise. It fosters emergent solutions and empowers participants to take ownership of the process.
Use this method when you need to generate innovative solutions to complex problems, foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and empower participants to take ownership of the evaluation process.
Solves: Lack of engagement, top-down decision-making, stifled creativity.
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Step 1: Frame the central theme or question for the Open Space session. (15 min)
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Step 2: Participants propose sessions related to the theme and post them on a 'marketplace' or virtual board. (30 min)
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Step 3: Participants sign up for the sessions that interest them. (15 min)
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Step 4: Sessions take place, with participants documenting key insights and action items. (60-180 min)
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Step 5: Share and consolidate the findings from all sessions. (30-60 min)
- Clearly explain the principles of Open Space: Whoever comes are the right people; Whatever happens is the only thing that could have; Whenever it starts is the right time; When it's over, it's over.
- Trust the process and allow participants to self-organize.
- Use a 'law of two feet' to encourage participants to move to sessions where they can contribute the most.
- Incorporate online collaboration tools for remote participation.