There are several processes that can be used to bring a group of people to deeper communication, innovative thinking, collaboration, sharing of resources and clarity of next steps, goals and overarching vision. Open Space Technology is one of these processes.

Many of these different methods can be used for conflict resolution and prevention; product, program or systems design; action and response to challenging situations; teambuilding; creating new organizations and providing nutrition for organizations or communities in transition; solving business problems; peacemaking, and more.

Whereas in other facilitation methods the facilitator often works as a weaver, if you will, of people with different viewpoints, interests, styles and experiences -- drawing upon his or her experience and ability to hear, intuit and to communicate as they translate what each person is saying so that others may hear it through their different cultural and experiential 'filters' and leading the group in exercises or processes that can help clarify and move the group towards understanding and action -- Open Space is based on the ability of people to self-organize for their mutual needs, given a few guidelines for meeting together. The facilitator in this case opens the meeting or conference and helps set the tone and intention for the group, then stands back to allow the individuals to group and regroup around their individual issues of interest and passion.

In all of the various processes, action planning and identification of next steps can be included as appropriate. In all of the different processes, the group can get from here to there perhaps more efficiently and productively with the assistance of the facilitator. Open Space is different in that the participants do not look to the facilitator to lead them through but look to themselves, with the presence and support of the facilitator. And it is one of the methods for which only one facilitator is needed for groups of 5, 500, or 1500.