Igniting Connection: How Open Space Technology Transformed Our Forum
Ever wished your training or events had more personal spark? At a recent forum, we were eager to tap into the collective intelligence of our incredible audience, and a technique called Open Space Technology delivered far beyond our expectations. Six of us, representing three different organizations, sat down to brainstorm ways we could turn control over to the attendees, trusting that they had the knowledge, creativity, and insight to lead meaningful discussions. We wanted a space where people could connect deeply, co-create openly, and engage with peers.
That’s when I remembered Open Space Technology—a facilitation method developed by Harrison Owen in 1983, designed to let participants set their own agendas. I had only used it a few times before but was convinced it was perfect for our forum. The goal was to encourage deep connections, open co-creation, and engagement among peers and strangers alike. I shared the idea with the team, and we decided to give it a try.
A Proven Technique for Creating Connection and Innovation
Open Space Technology is known for its “liberating” structure, as highlighted by Owen’s book Open Space Technology: A User’s Guide. Inspired by the lively conversations that happen naturally during conference breaks, Owen wanted to bring that dynamic into the formal event structure. His approach empowers participants to propose discussion topics, to freely join or leave groups, and to contribute wherever they feel most engaged. Key principles like “whoever comes are the right people” and “whenever it starts is the right time” reinforce the value of participant-driven conversations and collective ownership.
Our forum was a gathering of around 50 water security experts from the public, private, and third sectors. The goal was to explore the pressing issue of water insecurity. We set a broad focus—what’s not yet being tackled in water security—and left the agenda open. Participants could propose short, targeted discussions throughout the event space, moving from one meeting to the next as their interests shifted. If they felt they were neither contributing nor gaining value, they were free to find another group.
The Results: Engaged, Inspired, and Productive
We had high hopes, but the results far exceeded our expectations. The format generated outstanding connections and sparked innovative ideas that attendees eagerly shared with one another. While we’re still working through the formal results, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Participants left with a sense of inspiration, energy, and connection that we hadn’t seen before.
Lessons Learned: The Power of Letting Go
In a world where agendas are often carefully crafted and tightly held, Open Space Technology reminded us of the power of letting go. By respecting our participants’ expertise and trusting them to shape the event’s focus, we facilitated a gathering that was richer and more impactful than we could have planned alone. We achieved our outcomes, not by controlling the process but by creating a structure that let our participants lead.
For any team considering a new approach to their next event, I can’t recommend Open Space Technology highly enough. Sometimes, letting go of your agenda is the best way to uncover the solutions you’re searching for.
Phil Walsh is Founder of Walsh’s Learning to Achieve
