First of all, the OP-OD method requires the planning phases of a project to be defined and a fundamental planning objective to be set. The process itself is then structured, namely, the number and duration of the idea and development phases are determined. Then, the task is divided into individual, meaningful calls and series of calls. In addition, one should consider and decide how many participants and stakeholders it would make sense to involve in order to contest the process. On this basis, participation is organised at an early enough stage so that the participation of the desired actors can be guaranteed. In accordance with the method’s ambition to achieve openness, an open call for participation presents itself as an option if procurement law allows it. However, as with competitions, this can also be combined with the placement of participants. When selecting applicants, attention should be paid to a balance between the sexes, age groups and, if necessary, other criteria. On this basis, various selection or lottery bowls can be produced. In the Real Fictions section, this is illustrated by practical examples.

Which persons, and how many exactly, will participate in a particular OP-OD must be decided in reference to the specific requirements and peculiarities of the project. People can register for an OP-OD planning process directly on the relevant project page of the OP-OD project platform. The registration period should end at least six to eight weeks before the actual start of the planning process, so that all participants can reserve available time well in advance. In principle, proceedings should be as open as possible and participation should not be subject to any specific criteria other than interest and the time needed to take part. Further aspects of Collective Design.