Often, the most interesting conversations and the most useful contacts do not emerge during the official conference programme, but rather in informal side meetings or during coffee breaks. This idea provides the principle behind Open Space: A subject for discussion is given for the day, the schedule of the event is then determined by the participants themselves. Workshops around the subject are also organised spontaneously by participants themselves. The other participants decide how long to take part in which workshop. Everyone can leave or enter any workshop at any given time. The work groups must report the results of the workshops briefly and precisely.

The Open Space format is particularly suitable for very motivated groups and for situations in which self-determination among the participants is to be boosted and one wishes to ensure that the content fits the participants’ needs. Also, this method is a good way of developing ideas for new projects.