OSLIST Digest - 14 Nov 2004 to 15 Nov 2004 (#2004-306)

[Ralph Copleman]

On 11/16/04 2:00 AM, "Automatic digest processor"
<LISTSERV at LISTSERV.BOISESTATE.EDU> wrote:

> Is there ever a time when you have =
> found it useful to do an OS with a subgroup before bringing the whole =
> system together?

The question somehow reminds me of the old story about the young monk in the
monastery who went to the abbot and asked if it was okay if he smoked a
cigar while he was praying.  The abbot, horrified at the idea, denied the
monk permission.  An older monk (who also appreciated a good cigar) took the
younger man aside and advised him,  "Look, we're allowed an occasional
cigar, but don't ask if it's okay to smoke while you pray.  Ask instead if
it's okay to pray while you smoke."

My answer to your question, Peg, is, yes, I have found it useful.  If open
space is a good way to have meetings, then it's a good way to have meetings
regardless of whom it's appropriate to invite.  But that may not be the
issue here.  I think you're question isn't really about open space but about
how to make progress in the system in which you find yourself working.  What
are the relationships that need strengthening for us to make progress toward
the outcome the client seeks?  What's the best order ion which to gather
people?  Who needs to talk with whom and when?

I might say it would be good to have a meeting of teachers beforehand.  Or
afterward.  Or both.  Or perhaps neither.  You and your client would be the
best judge of these questions.  I don't think it's about open space as a
technique.

Ralph Copleman

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