diverge · Problem Solving, Strategy, Team Building · 90–1440 min · 10-1000 people · medium energy

Open Space Technology

Open Space Technology is a participant-driven meeting format that empowers large groups to self-organize around topics they are passionate about, fostering collective action and innovation. By relinquishing central control, it unlocks inherent creativity and leadership within the group to address complex challenges.

When to use Open Space Technology

Use Open Space when you need to address a complex problem, foster self-organization, and ensure that all important issues are raised and addressed by a large group. It's particularly useful after a merger, during a business transformation, or when setting a new strategic direction.

What it solves

Lack of engagement in large meetings, top-down agendas that miss critical issues, difficulty generating buy-in for new initiatives.

How to run Open Space Technology, step by step

  1. Frame the challenge. As the facilitator, clearly articulate the complex problem or opportunity facing the group. (5 minutes)
  2. Invite participants to propose sessions. Explain how to post session topics on the agenda board, emphasizing passion and relevance. (15 minutes)
  3. Create the agenda. Collaboratively organize the proposed sessions into a schedule, ensuring enough concurrent sessions to accommodate the interest. (15 minutes)
  4. Facilitate self-organized sessions. Participants attend the sessions they choose, guided by the 'Law of Two Feet' (move if you're not learning or contributing). (Variable, typically 45-90 minutes per session)
  5. Document and share. Capture the key outcomes and action items from each session and distribute them to all participants. (Ongoing throughout the event)

Materials needed

  • Large open space
  • Chairs (arranged in concentric circles)
  • Flip charts or whiteboards
  • Markers
  • Tape
  • Microphones (for large groups)
  • Large blank agenda sheet

Facilitator tips

  • Embrace emergence and resist the urge to control the agenda.
  • Clearly explain the Law of Two Feet and the Four Principles (Whoever comes are the right people; Whatever happens is the only thing that could have; Whenever it starts is the right time; When it is over, it is over).
  • Ensure that documentation is captured and shared promptly.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants not understanding the Law of Two Feet, leading to passive attendance.
  • Lack of clear documentation, resulting in lost insights and momentum.
  • Facilitator trying to control the agenda, stifling self-organization.

Variations

  • Reopen the marketplace for session proposals multiple times throughout the event.
  • Combine with other Liberating Structures like Celebrity Interview or 25/10 Crowd Sourcing.

Running it online or hybrid

Requires a robust virtual whiteboard and breakout room management system. Consider pre-assigning roles like 'scribe' for each breakout.

What it produces

A documented record of the proceedings, including session summaries, action items, and key insights, shared with all participants immediately after the meeting.

Origin

Invented by Harrison Owen, adapted by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. — source

Build a session around Open Space Technology

METODIC places Open Space Technology inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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