The Agenda

Agenda:  The Map to Effective Meetings

To have a successful meeting in both productivity and effectiveness, an agenda should be prepared regardless of how simple or detailed it may be.  Without one is like sailing without a map.  An agenda creates order and sets out a goal to accomplish it.  The attendees can use the agenda to prepare and think about the issues. 

Distributing the Agenda

For meetings that involve small groups, send out the agenda at least two days before the meeting.  For larger groups a week or two in advance is recommended.  If there may be participants that will travel from far away, more time should be considered.  Also, keep in mind what type of meeting you will be having.  Some meetings require more or less time to prepare for.

Informal Agenda

For routine or meetings that do not require much preparation, you may consider sending a simple agenda by email.  Some of the information you should include are:

Time:  When the meeting will take place.  Length of the meeting. 
Place:  Include directions and/or any pertinent information regarding the venue.
Purpose:  Objectives and intented outcome.
Attendees:  Who is expected to attend the meeting.
Responsibilities:  What the participants should prepare of bring to the meeting.