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At 07:28 AM 1/10/2003 -0500, you wrote:<br>
<blockquote type=cite class=cite cite>1. Write an "Open Letter
to the Democratic Party", the gist being<br>
that, considering outcomes of the past two elections, the
Democratic<br>
National Committee should ask Democratic voters and the American<br>
people: "What should we do now?"</blockquote><br>
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).<br><br>
<div align="center"><font face="Arial, Helvetica">*********************************<br><br>
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<x-tab> </x-tab>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.<br>
<x-tab> </x-tab>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.<br>
<x-tab> </x-tab>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.<br><br>
<b>Further Considerations<br><br>
</b><x-tab> </x-tab>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.<br>
<x-tab> </x-tab>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.”<br>
<x-tab> </x-tab>In this
present context, <i>The Whole System</i> 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.<br><br>
<b>A Different Way<br><br>
</b><x-tab> </x-tab>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.<br>
<x-tab> </x-tab>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. <br>
<x-tab> </x-tab>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.<br>
<x-tab> </x-tab>A most
valuable bell or whistle is <i>Data Mining</i>. 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.<br><br>
</font>Harrison<br><br>
<blockquote type=cite class=cite cite>Harrison Owen</blockquote>
<x-sigsep><p></x-sigsep>
<div align="center">7808 River Falls Drive<br>
Potomac, MD 20854 USA<br>
phone 301-365-2093<br>
Open Space Training
<a href="http://www.openspaceworld.com/" eudora="autourl">www.openspaceworld.com</a>
<br>
Open Space Institute <a href="http://www.openspaceworld.org/" eudora="autourl">www.openspaceworld.org</a><br>
Personal website <a href="http://mywebpages.comcast.net/hhowen/index.htm" eudora="autourl"><font color="#0000FF">http://mywebpages.comcast.net/hhowen/index.htm</a><br><br>
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