How is it possible to transfer the dynamic potential and the motivating atmosphere of informal meetings (e.g. at coffee breaks) into the regular processes of work? Harrison Owen, an independent organization consultant, was asking himself that question after having organized several conferences. Therefore he started to develop the ‘open space technology’ (OST) for groups. This essay is going to thoroughly explain the method’s idea and the way it works.
OST, mostly organized as a workshop or conference, makes it possible to solve ill-defined tasks through letting different people work together. Moreover, its advantages are various and its fields to use are vast. The essay will also provide some evaluation about the cases in which it can be used and a short conclusion can be found. Appendix 3 tries to give an overview of the contents as well.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Open Space Technology (OST) Method
- How OST Works
- Effects and Applications of OST
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This essay aims to explain the Open Space Technology (OST) method, evaluating its effectiveness in generating high-quality results within changing business contexts. It explores the method's practical application and assesses its impact on participant motivation and organizational change.
- The principles and mechanics of Open Space Technology.
- The role of participant motivation and empowerment in OST's success.
- The application of OST in diverse business contexts and its suitability for various types of problems.
- The comparison of OST with traditional conference and meeting methods.
- The long-term effects of OST on organizational culture and innovation.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory section sets the stage by drawing a parallel between the spontaneous and productive discussions often found during coffee breaks at conferences and the potential to harness similar energy in structured work processes. It introduces Harrison Owen's development of Open Space Technology (OST) as a method to achieve this and outlines the essay's structure.
The Open Space Technology (OST) Method: This chapter delves into the core concept of OST, describing it as a workshop or conference format designed to tackle ill-defined tasks through collaborative knowledge sharing. It highlights the method's suitability for diverse groups and its ability to tap into individual creative potential, defying traditional conference structures while avoiding chaos. The chapter emphasizes that OST is ideal for generating ideas and developing new strategies but is not suitable for situations where solutions are already readily available or a specific solution must be imposed.
How OST Works: This section details the practical application of OST. It explains the "marketplace of ideas" where participants propose topics, the subsequent self-selection into discussion groups, and the subsequent workshops. The chapter emphasizes the minimal rules guiding OST, highlighting Owen's five principles: the right people, the right time, whatever happens is the only thing that could have happened, whenever it's over it's over, and the law of two feet. The chapter also discusses the importance of idea recording and follow-up reporting.
Effects and Applications of OST: This chapter explores the effects of OST on both participants and the organization. It discusses the key role of motivation and involvement, citing authors who argue that OST harnesses natural energy and commitment. The chapter also examines the concept of empowerment and its role in freeing individual and collective energies. It suggests that OST's success stems from its ability to handle complex, ill-defined problems by leveraging the diversity within the group.
Keywords
Open Space Technology, OST, organizational change, creativity, innovation, participant empowerment, collaborative problem-solving, meeting facilitation, group dynamics, knowledge sharing, diverse teams.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview of Open Space Technology
What is the purpose of this document?
This document provides a comprehensive preview of a text about Open Space Technology (OST). It includes the table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords. The information is intended for academic use, facilitating analysis of the themes within the text.
What is Open Space Technology (OST)?
Open Space Technology is a workshop or conference format designed to address ill-defined problems through collaborative knowledge sharing. It leverages the collective creativity and diverse perspectives of participants to generate ideas and develop new strategies.
How does OST work?
OST operates on a "marketplace of ideas" principle. Participants propose topics, then self-select into discussion groups based on their interests. These groups hold workshops guided by minimal rules, including Harrison Owen's five principles: the right people, the right time, whatever happens is the only thing that could have happened, whenever it's over it's over, and the law of two feet. Idea recording and follow-up reporting are crucial.
What are the key themes explored in the text?
The text explores the principles and mechanics of OST, the role of participant motivation and empowerment, the application of OST in various business contexts, a comparison with traditional meeting methods, and the long-term effects on organizational culture and innovation.
What are the benefits of using OST?
OST is praised for its ability to harness natural energy and commitment from participants, leading to increased motivation and involvement. It's particularly effective for handling complex, ill-defined problems by leveraging the diversity within the group and empowering individuals to contribute creatively.
When is OST most suitable?
OST is ideal for generating ideas and developing new strategies, particularly when dealing with complex or ill-defined problems. However, it's not suitable for situations where solutions are already readily available or a specific solution must be imposed.
What are the limitations of OST?
The text doesn't explicitly detail limitations, but it implies that OST may not be appropriate for situations requiring a predetermined outcome or when quick, decisive solutions are needed. Successful implementation requires careful consideration of participant selection and effective follow-up.
What are the main chapters covered in the text?
The text includes chapters on the Introduction, The Open Space Technology (OST) Method, How OST Works, Effects and Applications of OST, and Conclusion.
What are the key words associated with the text?
Key words include: Open Space Technology, OST, organizational change, creativity, innovation, participant empowerment, collaborative problem-solving, meeting facilitation, group dynamics, knowledge sharing, and diverse teams.
Who is the intended audience of this document?
This document is intended for academic use, supporting the structured and professional analysis of themes related to Open Space Technology.
- Quote paper
- Michael A. Braun (Author), 2002, The Open Space Method as an Effective Way to Lead to High Quality Results in Changing Business Contexts, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/43159
