Art of Hosting Meaningful Conversations blends a suite of powerful conversational processes that invite people to step in and take charge of the challenges facing them in an inherently more democratic way than most conversations. Groups and organizations using AoH as a working practice report better decision-making, more efficient and effective capacity building, and greater ability to quickly respond to opportunity, challenge, and change. People who experience AoH typically say that they walk away feeling more empowered and able to help guide the meetings and conversations they are part of towards more effective and desirable outcomes.
AoH offers a blend of some of the most powerful methods to create open and meaningful conversation that leads to commitment and good results. Working with a range of collaborative methods — like Circle, World Café, Appreciative Inquiry, Open Space Technology, ProAction Café, storytelling and more — practitioners can tailor the approach to their context and purpose.
The Art of Hosting network is rapidly spreading and growing all over the world. This network has no formal, legal structure, no appointed leader, no accreditation program and no controlling body. It is based on a practitioner network, with local communities of practice; it is committed to learning and generous with its sharing and support. The Ohio State and Columbus community network includes more than 400 practitioners.
AoH principles and techniques can be applied to the vast majority of team meetings, strategic planning processes, orientations, team building, skills trainings, and a myriad of other uses. The growing community of practitioners at Ohio State is available to assist your group or unit with exploring this method of thinking together and creating innovative solutions. Contact womensplace@osu.edu for more information.
