Welcome to an O.D. Institute Gathering!

First-timers discover that we're an informal, unstructured bunch. Some describe our gatherings as chaotic; others perceive us as free flowing. We wear jeans, sandals, shorts, etc. We assemble for meals, entertainment, and late night conversations.

Several resources keep us informed on-site.

• The first resource is the Mother Board. It shows who, what, when, and where for each session. The Mother Board Manager is Mickey Veich, RODP. Since the Mother Board changes constantly, it is good to review it in-between sessions. If you wish to swap slots with someone, negotiate directly with that person. If both agree, swap. If you want to add your presentation, place a card in an open slot.
• The second resource is a general bulletin board. Post a note stating your resource to share, your idea, or your need. Those who are interested or who can help will respond. This enables us to share rides to the airport, find lost sunglasses, announce the hospitality room location, or to organize a spontaneous excursion.
• The third resource is a set of flip charts for ongoing, real-time conference feedback. Please write comments (in behavior specific language) under the appropriate heading: "stop" or "start" or "continue." If your thought is already on a chart, add a check mark beside it to indicate "I agree, me too."

We like it when speakers use timekeepers to provide a "five-minutes remaining" signal and a "time's up" signal. The "time's up" signal often triggers immediate applause from the group. Naturally, the late-running speaker gets the hint. As listeners, when we are ready to move to another room, we exit using the "invisible" walk, so as not to disturb anyone. We get cranky if a speaker keeps talking on into the next speaker's time slot.

Don Cole, RODC, is the President. He hangs around listening, observing, participating and simply enjoying us enjoying ourselves. He speaks up when it is important and the rest of the time he joins in as a peer in this self-organizing group.

The OD Institute convenes twice a year. The USA conference is usually in late May. The international meeting is somewhere on planet earth some other time of year. Off-site resources include the website (http:\\members.aol.com\odinst), a monthly newsletter, and the International Registry of OD Professionals and OD Handbook.

Welcome on behalf of the O. D. Institute, Don Cole, the New Member Orientation Committee and all members.

Linda J. Nolte, RODC, CMC
Chair - New Member Orientation Committee
NolteConsulting@worldnet.att.net