Technical Open Space

During this unconference we have a special time slot called Open Space. In it, you can present ideas and learn from others by having free conversations on interesting topics and engaging in live coding.

The Open Space does not have a pre-defined agenda. The participants themselves create it for the group, in the opening (about 20 minutes). A facilitator invites attendees to think about and propose relevant topics that they would like to discuss with their peers.

Empty marketplace, waiting to be filled.
Empty marketplace, waiting to be filled

You can propose one or more sessions, as long as there are available slots on the marketplace. The marketplace is a visual agenda for the Open Space, with 4-6 designated places and 3-4 time slots. You can see an example of a completed market place below. At the time of your session you need to be at the designated place and lead the discussion. You don’t need to be an expert on the topic, it can even be something you are curious about and would like to learn from other attendees and speakers.

One attendee proposes a session for the marketplace
One attendee proposes a session for the marketplace

Every Open Space session is self-organized, where the only rule that applies is The law of two feet: “If at any time during our time together you find yourself in any situation where you are neither learning nor contributing, use your two feet, go someplace else.”.

The session ends when it ends. If the discussion is running out of fuel, everyone should feel free to move to another session that is happening in parallel. On the contrary, if you want to continue the discussion, there’s always plenty of space in the lobby or at the bar.

Group discussion during Open Space
Group discussion during Open Space. In the background you can see another group debating.

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