Tell Me More about Open Space

Open Space is a gathering of people who have common interest, in this case Girl Scouts. Participants create and manage their own agenda of parallel working sessions around central themes of  importance; the  results are  improved communication, creative solutions, enhanced collaboration and increased productivity.

How Does It Work?

The elegantly simple process of Open Space Technology is fueled by participants taking responsibility for their passion. All participants have the opportunity to post topics they feel are important in answering the themed question. The first part of the meeting participants created the agenda and organized into self-managed groups. All those who share interest in a posted discussion topic get together to work on it.  In this way, collaboration becomes intensely appealing and the potential for commitment is increased because participants have taken ownership of issues and opportunities.

There are four principles and one law in Open Space.

Four Principles:
1.  Whoever comes are the right people.
2.  Whatever happens is the only thing that could have happened.
3.  Whenever it starts is the right time.
4.  When it’s over, it’s over.

Law of Two Feet

If you are not learning or contributing, use your two feet to take you where you will learn or contribute. While Open Space is known for its apparent lack of structure and welcoming of surprises, the Open Space meeting or organization is actually a perfect fit for the people and the work at hand. It supports, not blocks, best work. The stories and work plans woven in Open Space are generally more complex, more robust, more durable, and can move a great deal faster than expert or management-driven designs. Participants leave Open Space events ready to take action!

How to Prepare

Come prepared to think beyond the edges with some of the best girl minds in Girl Scouting. Think about hosting a small-group discussion or selecting from a diverse marketplace of discussions, animated conversations, resource-sharing, problem-solving, collaboration and networking that will be taking place in Open Space.

Come prepared to be surprised. Be prepared to see what passionate, creative and dedicated girls can do for the future of Girl Scouting!

Previous Results

Open the files linked below to read the results of previous Open Space sessions.