Open Space Technology is a meeting format that can be used when: 1) There is a complex business issue that requires diverse skills and perspectives to resolve and participants are passionate about the issue. 2) Participants freely discuss topics they are interested in at different locations in the room. 3) Facilitators at each location summarize the discussions for all participants.

1. Open Space Technology

2. When To Use It? the topic of the meeting involves a real business issue the participants really care about that issue the issue has so much complexity that no single person or small group can fully understand it the issue requires highly diverse skills and people for a successful resolution the participants have genuine passion about the issue; which can often include conflict the issue requires immediate action

3. How Does It Work? Participants sit in a large circle Participants propose topics for discussion However, if you suggest a topic, it is preferable that you are passionate enough to facilitate discussion about it Locations are determined for each topic Participants are free to roam the locations A discussion is facilitated at each location by a facilitator The facilitators sum up their respective discussions

4. Four Principles Whoever comes is 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.

5. Law Of Two Feet If at any time you find yourself in any situation where you are neither learning nor contributing , use your two feet .