‘Working in the open’, or making your work visible, can be beneficial to you and your team in a number of ways including continuous improvement through regular reflection, creating peer networks and building trust through transparency. We’ll also explore the importance of working in the open in the context of open government, building trust between people and power and creating a healthy and functioning democracy.

In this interactive workshop, we’ll discuss why working in the open is important personally, organisationally and societally and we’ll get you started with practical first steps.

Arrivals from 10:30. Session starts at 11am and finishes at 13:00. Tea and coffee will be provided.

Who is this event for?

This is for anyone who wants to:

• Understand different reasons for working the open;

• Determine the best ways to document and share their work;

• See how other people are working in the open;

• Build confidence to get started.

The session includes time for practical exercises to:

• Articulate your purpose for working in the open;

• Assess risks and determining appropriateness;

• Set out how you will begin and maintain regular practice;

• Consider face to face and digital styles and methods.

By the end, we will have formed a group of people starting a journey who can link up for support and accountability. We’ll also open up the opportunity to get involved in the Open Government Network if you’re interested in thinking about how openness works at all levels of systems and government.

What this event is:

• An informal workshop for curious people to explore concerns, ideas and build confidence;

• Exploring online and offline approaches and skills development;

• Discussing principles and limits for working in the open;

• Giving practical advice, tips and examples;

• Offering opportunities to get involved and connect to others beyond the life of the workshop.

What this event is not:

• A formal training event;

• A session on social media and blogging;

• A workshop on engagement.

If you’ve been putting off journaling, blogging or organising meetups because you lack confidence or support, this is the perfect opportunity to get started!

This is an informal, exploratory event. It’s hosted in collaboration by Leah Lockhart, a free agent supporting public sector reform through practical action and Niamh Webster who leads on Open Government and participation at the Scottish Government.

10:30 for an 11am start, finish at 13:00. Tea and coffee will be provided.