Doug Reeler asked about design suggestions for helping make a 2 day
planning conference more focused and concrete.
I assume from your note and your use of Open Space methodology that
you share thinking with the design suggestions in Real Time Strategic
Change by Robert Jacobs. This book is a very practical application guide
for using principles of full involvement with large groups.
Early recommendations are to form a design team (also large and
diverse). For effective integration of the information that will emerge,
you will need a significant amount of logistical support and a 'turn
around team' to synthesize and summarize in preparation for next steps
action.
jbeedon who shares her thoughts on this list has used RTSC
methodology in her previous organization and may be a resource to you.
Best wishes as you move forward.
--Fran Alexander (fjalex@aol.com)