At 07:28 AM 1/10/2003 -0500, you wrote:
1. Write an "Open Letter to the Democratic Party", the gist being
that, considering outcomes of the past two elections, the Democratic
National Committee should ask Democratic voters and the American
people: "What should we do now?"
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).
*********************************
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.
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.
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.
Further Considerations
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.
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.
In this present context, The Whole System 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.
A Different Way
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.
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.
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.
A most valuable bell or whistle is Data Mining. 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.
Harrison
Harrison Owen
7808 River Falls Drive
Potomac, MD 20854 USA
phone 301-365-2093
Open Space Training www.openspaceworld.com
Open Space Institute www.openspaceworld.org
Personal website http://mywebpages.comcast.net/hhowen/index.htm
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