Two weeks ago I facilitated the first-ever Omidyar Network members conference in Open Space. After the conference, we started a discussion thread called “What I loved about this conference.” Anne Marie Bellavance posted this comment, which is a perfect example of how “action” happens after an Open Space meeting.
I loved meeting Dennis and Tony from Kaboom, so much so i returned home knowing i wanted to participate in a Kaboom build [community-built playspace] asap. I was reading the local paper last Friday, and discovered this article profiling the groundbreaking of a new recreation park in the town next door. The head of the committee happens to be the Athletic Director at the college I used to work for. I emailed him this morning asking if they would be interested in a Kaboom build ~ he responded immediately with a enthusiastic YES.
My first Kaboom project has begun
So often we seem to operate under the impression that the facilitator, the leader(s), or more mysteriously “the organization” does something to make action happen. Mostly I find that organizations don’t take action. People do.
The best any leader can do is invite and support it. That is exactly what Open Space Tech does, invite and support. Then, as Anne Marie is demonstrating, the action is easy.
Hey Michael,
Thanks for these posts on OST and Action. Days before their arrival I was talking with a friend whose experience with OS had been “a lot of rich dialogue but not too much follow up and action.” I was sharing my own stories of how inclusive and conducive to action OST is… perfect timing!!
Thanks,
I think it’s funny that so many people talk about “action” and “results” but when pressed, they often don’t have much clarity about what would actually qualify as such.
can’t get what you can’t imagine. or can’t get the BIG changes you want if you can’t imagine and tolerate so many little tiny steps between here and there.