All modern group processes that are open to collaboration or to flattening the hierarchy are based in some way on circle practices. As organizations of all kinds move increasingly toward shared and rotating leadership, they are calling on the circle model to form sustainable teams and adopt circle-driven group processes such as World Café, Open Space, and Art of Hosting. Meetings in the round have become the preferred tool for moving individual commitment into group action. This book lays out the structure of circle conversation, based on the original work of the co-authors who have studied and standardized the essential elements that constitute circle practice. It takes readers through a circle visual (the Components of Circle) and presents both structure and story so that readers understand how these elements come into play and how they interrelate and interact. It also embeds circle process experience in stories and examples drawing on the authors’ 15 years of experience as global thought leaders and originators of this form, and it presents detailed instructions and suggestions for getting started, setting goals, and solving conflicts. About Christina Baldwin Christina Baldwin is the author of Calling the Circle, "Seven Whispers," and most recently "Storycatcher," which won a 2006 Books for a Better Life Award. She teaches and lectures extensively through her educational company, PeerSpirit. She lives outside Seattle, Washington, on Whidbey Island. About Margaret Wheatley Margaret Wheatley is a co-founder of the Berkana Institute and author of the best-selling books, "Leadership and the New Science and "A Simpler Way.
Robert Tannenbaum was a founder of the field of organization development. He was affiliated with such organizations as NTL Institute for Applied Behavioral Science, the University of California, and the Organization Development Network.
Paula Yardley Griffin is a consultant, author, and editor. Since 1997 she has been the editor of the newsletter, "Consulting Today.
Kristine Quade is a consultant with Quantum Change Associates, editor for the Pfeiffer Practicing OD Series, and coauthor of "The Conscious Consultant from Pfeiffer.
The Organization Development Network (OD NETWORK) is a vital learning community that develops, supports, and inspires practitioners and enhances the body of knowledge in human organization and systems development.
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