The Open Door project, in that it gives editorial control to participants, is a form of access television. The idea of 'ordinary' people getting involved in and seeing themselves on their own television screen was first explored in Canada but versions of it have existed in the United States, Great Britain and Australia, where Keith Lambert - Open Door's original founder/director - became aware of it.

Unlike the rest of New Zealand television programming which can be characterised as 'top down'; where programme initiatives come from the broadcaster, Open Door is 'bottom up'; the creative initiative comes from members of the general community, who also control the programme outcomes.

In order to make this control by non-media people real, the format is very straightforward. Only people directly involved in the issues appear on screen rather than commentators or outside observers. The most common feedback we get from viewers is "thank goodness for a straightforward programme without the hype".

As well as their airing on TV3, the fact that the programmes are fully funded by New Zealand On Air means that they must be made available for unlimited broadcast on regional television channels and the Maori televison Service immediately following the first broadcast by TV3. A number are also available on NZ on Screen. Many of the previous participants have also found that DVD copies of their programme prove to be a valuable and lasting informational resource that has continued to help to fundraise and get their messages out through schools and other community organisations.