HOW TO START AN
openLab
A talent interoperability pattern between education and the workforce
The openLab method provides guidelines for welcoming ambitious young minds into genuine practice opportunities to prepare them for paid work.
By leveraging hybrid workplace technology we can massively increase the throughput of young collaborators at low cost while simultaneously fueling innovation in our region.
Characteristics
openLabs are remotely hosted, sponsored by organizations with specific goals, and may be deployed exclusively internally or publicly. openLabs are strongly encouraged to be as public as possible to maximize insight, encourage best behavior, and organically build community.
How to openLab:
Establish an asynchronous means of collaboration (we recommend Telegram or Slack. .)
Encourage the widest possible interested audience to join as Collaborators (aka “collabers”).
Identify Problem Owners to offer problems for Collabers to work on. A Collaber may also be a Problem Owner.
Ask participants to work remotely on problems and give frequent (daily if possible) video updates of their progress (we recommend Loom). Problem Owners should also provide video feedback as appropriate.
How NOT to openLab:
Don’t force to meet in person for official business (making friends on the side is always welcome though!)
Don’t rely on frequent meetings. Sending videos to the group and asking for feedback solves 99% of problems.
Don’t over-standardize everything. Participants should self-select who, how, and what they work on as much possible so long as it meets the goals of the sponsoring organization(s).
FAQ
Why Telegram or Slack?
Telegram is preferred over Slack because it allows participants to join a community as an individual rather than a representative of their organization. Slack may, however, be a great option for organizations that desire to host an internal, non-public openLab. Just about any form of asynchronous communication can work though, even text!
Is the work paid?
Not always, but we strongly encourage work to be paid as much as possible for Collabers, especially if they are young professionals or students.
How does an openLab make money?
An openLab isn’t designed to make money; it’s merely a way to collaborate. The openLab method does produce rapid iteration, learning, and innovation so if any of those things are desired consider giving the openLab method a try!
Have you thought about _____?
Maybe, but maybe not! We’d love to chat if you’ve got ideas about new tools, partnerships, or anything else.