Open Space Technology (OST)

Open Space Technology (OST) is a self-organised conference format where participants define the topics to be discussed themselves. This process fosters creativity and collaboration, allowing complex issues to be addressed in an engaging manner. Participants are free to choose the discussions they wish to contribute to, stimulating engagement and collective innovation.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction and rules of the game

   15 min

   The facilitator welcomes the participants and briefly presents the concept of OST. They explain that participants will create their own agenda by proposing discussion topics. They mention the four principles of OST: 'The people who show up are the right people', 'Whatever happens is the only thing that could have happened', 'It starts when it starts', and 'It ends when it ends'. Finally, they introduce the 'two feet law', encouraging participants to move freely between discussions.

   Tip — Use simple and engaging language so that everyone feels comfortable and understands the rules well.

2. 2

   Proposing topics

   20 min

   Participants are invited to think about the topics they would like to discuss. Each person can write a topic on a piece of paper and present it to the group. The topics are then displayed on a wall or board. The facilitator encourages a diversity of proposals and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to express themselves.

   Tip — Encourage participants to formulate open topics that spark discussion rather than closed questions.

3. 3

   Creating the agenda

   15 min

   The facilitator organises the proposed topics into a visible agenda for all. They may group similar or complementary topics together. Participants are then invited to choose the sessions they wish to attend. The facilitator ensures that each session has a dedicated space and that the timings are clear.

   Tip — Use different coloured post-its for topics, which makes grouping and reading the agenda easier.

4. 4

   Discussion sessions

   60-90 min

   Participants spread out into the different spaces dedicated to the sessions. Each session is self-managed by the participants present. The facilitator may circulate to ensure everything is going smoothly but allows participants to manage their discussions. Participants are encouraged to change sessions if they feel they are no longer contributing or learning.

   Tip — Prepare comfortable and conducive spaces for discussion for each session to encourage participation.

5. 5

   Closure and sharing results

   20 min

   At the end of the sessions, participants return as a group to share the results of the discussions. Each group can designate a person to provide a summary of the key points discussed. The facilitator thanks the participants for their engagement and summarises the main ideas that emerged.

   Tip — Use a board or screen to note the main ideas shared by each group so that everyone can see them.

Variants

• Organise the OST online using video conferencing tools and virtual boards.
• Limit the number of topics for more in-depth discussions.
• Add a phase for prioritising topics by vote to involve participants more.