EGOS 2026 Sub-theme 38
What an inspiring few days at EGOS 2026 Sub-theme 38: Open Strategy – Exploring Different Contexts, Actors, and Domains!
David Seidl, Robin Engelbach, and Winky Wu had the pleasure of convening a sub-theme on Open Strategy at the EGOS (European Group for Organizational Studies) Local Hub at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.
Across 17 papers, keynotes, an expert panel, and many engaging discussions, we explored how Open Strategy research continues to evolve. The program was structured around three complementary perspectives that helped us make sense of the diversity of contributions: Contexts, Actors, and Domains.
Contexts reminded us that Open Strategy is increasingly moving beyond its original corporate settings. We discussed openness across different countries, sectors, and organizational forms – from public organizations and healthcare to innovation districts, democratic transitions, and digital infrastructures.
Actors highlighted the growing diversity of participants in strategizing. Beyond managers, discussions focused on citizens, communities, intermediaries, AI, digital technologies, and other non-human actors, while also examining how participation becomes meaningful through legitimacy, boundary work, and collective action.
Domains demonstrated how Open Strategy increasingly addresses broader societal challenges. Papers explored openness in relation to sustainability, public governance, interorganizational collaboration, strategic communication, foresight, and organizational performance – showing how the field continues to expand into new areas of inquiry.
A particular highlight was seeing such an international and interdisciplinary community come together, bringing diverse perspectives while maintaining the constructive and fun atmosphere that has always characterized the Open Strategy community.
A heartfelt thank you to all presenters, discussants, keynote speakers, session chairs, and participants for making this such a stimulating and enjoyable sub-theme. We leave with many new ideas, exciting collaborations, and great enthusiasm for the future of Open Strategy research.
Looking forward to continuing the conversations at AOM, SMS, and, of course, at the Open Strategy Workshop 2027 in Finland!