Readings and Research on ToP

Articles, essays, and research on the history, theory, and application of ToP facilitation.

Addressing Conflict in Development Using ICA's Technology of Participation by Jonathan Dudding
In this paper, Jonathan Dudding from ICA/UK describes the development and theory behind ToP processes and describes how ToP methods can be used to effectively address conflict situations.

Benefits of Participatory Planning by Rosabeth Moss Kanter  
This list of five benefits of participatory planning is excerpted from Rosabeth Moss Kanter's Winning Through Participation. 

Blip on the Radar or New Paradigm by Wayne Nelson  
In this article, Wayne Nelson of ICA Associates (Canada), suggests participation as a paradigm shift, not just a passing fad.

The Evolution of ICA's Facilitation Methods
In this brief article, Brian Stanfield articulates the origins of the ToP methods.

Facilitator Style by Wayne Nelson
In this book chapter, Wayne Nelson offers insights about the essential facilitator values and practices that enable participants to create their own future.

Introduction to Transformational Strategy book
This book contains a complete theory, methods, examples and case studies for ToP participatory strategic planning. The book is available online at amazon and iuniverse as an ebook and a printed book.

Magic Of The Facilitator by Brian Stanfield
In this chapter, Brian Stanfield lays out 14 competencies that facilitators must possess.

Megatrends 2015
This resource describes "megatrends" - large, transformative global forces that define th future by having a far reaching impact on business, economies, industries, societies & individuals. The six megatrends identified include digital future, entrepreneurship rising, global marketplace, urban world, resourceful planet, & health reimagined.

Organizational Wisdom of ICA by Terry Bergdall
Written by long-time ICA Executive Director, Terry Bergdall, this ICA orientation handbook gives the reader an in-depth understanding of the principles, values, and perspectives of the ICA.

Revisioning Organization Development
In this peer-reviewed academic article from the Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, several organizational development techniques are analyzed.  Discussion regarding ToP begins on page 7.

The Technology of Participation by Marilyn Oyler and Gordon Harper
This excerpt from The Change Handbook is a detailed article written by Marilyn Oyler and Gordon Harper, explaining ToP processes, development, implementation, and benefits.

How to Make a Sticky Wall
This one-page instruction sheet explains how to make your own sticky wall.

Origin of the Sticky Wall
This short description tells of the events and characters who were instrumental in bringing the sticky wall to our work.

Introduction of TNAG 2019 Session - Honoring Our Torchbearers and Harvesting Wisdom from Our Communities Early DaysThis opening script for a Gathering session provides background information and an introduction to the early members of the Order: Ecumenical, Ecumenical Institute and the Institute of Cultural Affairs.


A Critical Collaborative Autoethnography of the ToP NetworkThis was a session presented by Robert Quintana Hopkins at the Gathering 2019.  He is doing his PhD dissertation on the ToP Network.  This provides an overview of his initial research and invites colleagues to help design the remaining research.