This means that the people who are attracted to the session are the ones who care about that topic."The best insights often come from unexpected sources."Be open-minded. Everyone present has something unique to offer. Don't dismiss anyone based on rank, experience, or background.

Whoever comes are the right people

If the conversation has finished before the allotted time, that's fine. If it needs to extend beyond, that's fine too."Respect the rhythm of discussions; they have their own life."Don't force a conversation to continue if it's reached its natural conclusion. Similarly, if there's more to discuss, seek ways to continue the conversation, perhaps in a follow-up session.

When it's over, it's over

This principle gives participants the autonomy to make the most out of the event by moving to a place where they can either learn or contribute. "Empower yourself to move where your contribution and learning are maximized."Trust your instincts. If you feel you aren't benefiting from or contributing to a session, don't hesitate to join another group or take a break. Your time and input are valuable, so use them wisely.

Law of Two Feet

Participants create the agenda on the spot, and people are encouraged to pursue topics they're passionate about."Harness the power of collective intelligence by letting it flow freely."Engage actively. Propose topics, join discussions, or even just listen. Allow the group's dynamics to guide the day.

Self-organisation

Open Space Technology democratizes group discussions, allowing every voice to be heard and fostering an environment where spontaneous, genuine collaboration can flourish. By emphasizing active participation, self-organization, and adaptability, it addresses complex issues with innovative solutions that traditional, top-down methods might overlook.

Open Spaces Technology Is Best Served For Complexity

This embraces the creative spirit and spontaneity."Creativity doesn’t stick to a schedule."Be patient and flexible. Allow conversations to evolve naturally without the pressure of time constraints.

Whenever it starts is the right time

In OST, the facilitator's role is minimal, mainly setting the stage and then stepping back to let the participants take charge.”Guidance is subtle; the real direction comes from the group."While facilitators set the stage, remember that the collective energy and insights of the participants drive the process. Engage with respect and curiosity.

The role of the facilitator

This encourages an acceptance of what unfolds.”Embrace the flow of the moment and the wisdom it brings."Stay present and adapt. Don't dwell on what could have been or should have been. Focus on the current conversation and its potential.

Whatever happens is the only thing that could have

The central space where topics are proposed and sessions are announced. People can freely move between discussions."Diverse discussions lead to rich insights. Explore the marketplace of ideas."Venture out and sample different sessions. The diversity of discussions can offer a broader perspective on the theme.

Space and Marketplace

Embracing Open Space Technology principles in leadership fosters inclusivity, adaptability, and shared responsibility, catalyzing team innovation and driving sustainable business growth.

Open Space Technology: A User’s Guide is just what the name implies: a hands-on, detailed description of facilitating Open Space Technology (OST). OST is an effective, economical, fast, and easily repeatable strategy for organizing meetings of between 5 and 2,000 participants that has been used in thousands of organizations in 134 countries and just keeps growing in popularity. Written by the originator of the method, this is the most authoritative book on the rationale, procedures, and requirements of OST. OST enables self-organizing groups of all sizes to deal with hugely complex issues in a very short period of time. This step-by-step user’s guide details what needs to be done before, during, and after an Open Space event. Harrison Owen details all the practical considerations necessary to create Open Space. He begins with the most important question—should you use Open Space at all?—and examines what types of situations are appropriate for Open Space Technology and what types are not. He then goes on to look at nuts-and-bolts issues such as supplies, logistics, and who should come and how you should go about getting them there. This third edition adds a survey of the current status of Open Space Technology around the world, an updated section on the latest available technology for report writing (a key aspect of the Open Space process), and an updated list of resources.