[OSList] Another Way of Ending an Open Space Meeting

[Lisa Heft]

Meike -

I recommend this: Read the short book, "Open Space Technology: A  
User's Guide' - by Harrison Owen.
(or download the electronic copy from Amazon if that is accessible or  
easier for you)

Harrison - who wrote this note below - is the originator of the Open  
Space method.

He mentions the Medicine Wheel at the end of the book, as an optional  
activity. As you can see, some of us use it, some do not. Like any  
tool - the Medicine Wheel would be something you might select if it  
fits the culture or need of the group, if it fits the task, if it fits  
your style, and so on. After an analysis as to whether the meeting  
objectives and desired outcomes indicate what tool / process should be  
used to deliver those outcomes, and so on. Then if Open Space is  
selected, how that OS's closure works is important as well. And  
whether there is something that follows the Open Space, as well. Such  
as a break, then shifting into another process for pattern-seeking and  
a discussion about next steps. Or perhaps it is simply a knowledge- 
sharing conference that ends with people reflecting on what they have  
learned and experienced and then everyone goes off on their separate  
ways.

But most importantly - in order to understand some of the hidden  
theory behind, facilitator role in, and what-it-is-and-is-not of Open  
Space - this book is the fundamental book for people who wish to learn  
about and facilitate Open Space. And it is also so amazing to hear  
this described - and to learn that you are fully welcomed to do Open  
Space no matter how you learn it - in the voice of its originator,  
Harrison.

You are based in Berlin - I understand our colleagues may help you  
access a German version, if you learn better through reading your home  
language.
And perhaps you might be interested in joining some of us at the World  
Open Space on Open Space in London next month?
http://www.wosonos2012.com

There is also a workshop just before that conference. However: you do  
not have to be 'officially' taught or certified or blessed by anyone  
in particular in order to do Open Space - you are already 'blessed' by  
Harrison to be and do anything you wish and learn and do in any way  
you wish, including self-taught. That is part of his generosity and  
his legacy, that he shares with all of us.

A deep bow to you, Harrison - for that, and for so many other  
things... ;o)

Lisa

Lisa Heft
Consultant, Facilitator, Educator
President Emerita, Open Space Institute US
Fellow, Columbia University Center for International Conflict Resolution
Opening Space


On Sep 17, 2012, at 5:13 AM, Harrison Owen wrote:

> You will find that (info on Medicine Wheel) in “Open Space  
> Technology: A User’s Guide”
>
> ho
>
> Harrison Owen

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