Help with Idea / Democratic Party - Internet - New Technology

[Harrison Owen]

At 07:28 AM 1/10/2003 -0500, you wrote:
>1. Write an  "Open Letter to the Democratic Party", the gist being
>that, considering outcomes of the past two elections, the Democratic
>National Committee should ask Democratic voters and the American
>people: "What should we do now?"

Not a doubt about it. The Democratic Party, of which I have been a life 
long member, could certainly use some help. And the thoughts that you are 
noodling would make a real contribution. However, I wouldn't hold my breath 
waiting for acceptance. That said, it is always worth a try. Some years 
ago, inspired by a wonderful happening in Canada (and Birgitt was a central 
actress), I proposed using Open Space (computer based and face to face) to 
create what I called a "Civil Conversation." I think there was a discussion 
about all this sometime back -- which might still be in the archives. More 
recently, I have been a part of a conversation to help the Governor of 
Georgia (The US State) repair his education system -- with Open Space as a 
Key component. There is no indication that anything will happen with all 
this -- but you might find some of the language useful.  Our brief proposal 
follows (actually less than a proposal, and more of a conversation opener).

*********************************

         The renewal of the education system of Georgia (as indeed any 
human system) requires not only innovative approaches, but also a deep 
knowledge of the nature of the system and its context (external 
stakeholders and forces). Such knowledge permits the choice and tailoring 
of approaches to assure an appropriate “fit,” thereby minimizing negative 
unintended consequences (fix one problem and create 20 new ones). Such 
knowledge also allows for the preparation of the system to receive and 
effectively utilize the innovations. Among other things, this preparation 
will enhance buy-in from those who constitute the system and must implement 
the system changes.
         Standard approaches towards meeting the requirements indicated 
above include massive data collection combined with system modeling. Under 
ideal circumstances, data from all aspects of the system is combined to 
form a fully accurate map (model) of the system. Unfortunately, time, 
budget, and in some cases ability, all conspire to limit the collection of 
data, effective analysis, and accurate modeling. The net result is a 
compromised product.
         In order to save on the costs of data collection and system 
modeling, an Expert Panel is frequently appointed on the presumption that 
their experience and knowledge can make up the deficit. Doubtless, such an 
approach is better than nothing, but not without its costs. A finite group 
of people can never know the full richness of a large system, and their 
presuppositions and biases (which everybody has) inevitably limit and/or 
skew their understanding of problems and potential solutions. Further, any 
solutions that may be devised must then be offered to the population of the 
State for implementation. Unfortunately, it is a common experience that 
movement from the proclamation of an outstanding solution to implementation 
is often barred at the point of execution by the infamous NIH – Not 
Invented Here! In short, there was no buy-in.

Further Considerations

         One of the central insights from the world of Systems Thinking is 
that “a system is its own best model.” This simple statement of the obvious 
is a reminder that complex systems boggle the mind when it comes to 
identifying and understanding the constituent elements and their 
interactions. Thus, if you desire a “perfect” model of the system, the 
system must be its own model.
         Another insight, coming from the work of those who assist in the 
process of large systems change, is that buy-in, in terms of identified 
solutions, is enhanced when those who must implement the solutions are 
essentially the same individuals as the ones who created the solutions. 
Therefore the more people substantially involved in the change process, the 
higher the likelihood of success. Or, as it is sometimes said, “Get the 
whole system in the room.”
         In this present context, The Whole System would potentially 
include every person in the State of Georgia, and doubtless many others who 
reside beyond the State. At the very least, the target group would include 
all those who care about the education of children in Georgia. Obviously 
there is no single room large enough for the millions who might choose to 
be involved, nor would it be desirable to simply “shut down” the State in 
order to free them all for a meeting. But there is a way.

A Different Way

         Utilizing a combination of Open Space Technology and widely 
available computer technology (Internet), it is technically possible to 
involve the entire State of Georgia in the process of the enhancement of 
education for the people.
         Open Space Technology is a simple approach to large group 
interventions which has been in existence for almost 20 years. To date it 
has been utilized in 70+ countries approximately 30,000 times with groups 
ranging is size from 5-1500. Participating groups have included 
governmental agencies, Native Americans, Israelis and Palestinians, and 
AT&T executives. Focal Themes for the gatherings were The Future of 
American Forests, Building Roads on Tribal Lands, Peace in the Middle East, 
and design of the AT&T Pavilion for the ‘96 Olympics. Organizing time for 
such events is minimal, and given the basic logistics (a place to meet, and 
the presence of the people), 24 hours is sufficient. Costs are also minimal 
primarily because the services of only single facilitator are required, 
regardless of the size of the group. In situations where space is donated 
(a High School Gymnasium, for example), people bring their own food (“Brown 
bag it”), and the facilitator comes from the group, the cost is essentially 
zero. The results of an Open Space are basically guaranteed to be the 
following: 1) Every issue of concern to anybody will be on the table. 2) 
All issues will be discussed to the extent that anybody cares to do so. 3) 
Written reports of all discussions are prepared, and available to all 
participants prior to departure. 4) All issues will be prioritized. 5) 
Related issues are converged. 6) Action plans for high priority issues are 
developed, and responsibility is assumed for execution.
         With the addition of “The Electronic Environment” it becomes 
possible to link multiple Open Space gatherings both in time and space. 
Simply put, reports generated in any Open Space are instantly made 
available to all other Open Spaces, regardless of when or where they may 
occur. It is also possible to allow for real time interactions between all 
participants and gatherings, essentially creating a “meta open space.” The 
basic technology for doing all of this is essentially available to any 12 
year old, although some additional “Bells and Whistles” can markedly 
enhance the result.
         A most valuable bell or whistle is Data Mining. As reports are 
generated and consolidated in a common data base it becomes possible to 
search for emerging themes and solutions. In essence, the system models 
itself. Further, since the authors and participants behind all reports are 
part of the record, the basic outlines of emerging networks and coalitions 
are revealed. Effective utilization of such networks and coalitions in the 
implementation of potential solutions can be a powerful tool.

Harrison

>Harrison Owen

7808 River Falls Drive
Potomac, MD 20854 USA
phone 301-365-2093
Open Space Training www.openspaceworld.com
Open Space Institute www.openspaceworld.org
Personal website http://mywebpages.comcast.net/hhowen/index.htm

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