A case study on open space technology as human swarm method for problem solving

This paper discusses the application of Open Space Technology as a human swarm methodology and explores options for optimization. Open Space Technology, a self-organizing style of meeting, was applied by Hyland Software as an exercise in distributed problem solving with regards to the function of the company. Two applications by Hyland Software were observed, one with topical guidance and one without, leading to varying levels of perceived engagement. The observations of these Open Space Technology instances have resulted in ideas for the optimization of this approach as a human swarm method for distributed problem solving.