As an experienced facilitator, I make sure your meeting or workshop uses time productively, stays on-topic, and wraps up with a clear set of conclusions. I make sure all voices are heard and that decisions are made by consensus.

Before the meeting:

1. •Identify the goals and desired outcome
   

2. •Propose formats and ground rules
   

3. •Prepare meeting space and materials
   

During the meeting:

1. •Ensure all participants understand the agenda and process
   

2. •Create a safe and comfortable environment to discuss issues
   

3. •Guide the discussion toward a productive outcome
   

4. •Help participants describe and prioritize issues
   

5. •Provide all attendees an equal opportunity to participate
   

6. •Keep on-track and on-schedule
   

7. •Identify points of agreement and conclusions
   

After the meeting:

1. •Provide a summary of what occurred, and prepare for next steps
   

Increase Access and Participation

Optional online services are available to provide a record of your meeting or reach participants at distant locations:

1. • Web site for your entire project, including background, upcoming meeting information, and meeting notes
   

2. • Online interaction using a web forum or blog
   

3. • Webcast your meeting live to include remote participants
   

4. • Video or audio recording of your meeting, available online as a streaming video or podcast

A facilitator helps participants reach the goals of your meeting or workshop. By managing the process of the meeting, the facilitator lets you focus on its content -- the topic you came to discuss in the first place.