1) Facilitator, note-taker, and time-keeper should introduce themselves and define their roles. This will let people know what to expect of them.2) General introduction between all members: Make newcomers, or infrequent members feel welcome by having everyone introduce themselves, or do a 'check in' with all present - how is everyone feeling before the meeting? This is good to do at all meetings
3) Brief agenda intro (written on blackboard and/or give everyone copies of agenda, or use a single copy that everyone can add to and see) Include time limits (if nec.) and who's responsible for each item. Allow everyone to include items on the agenda.
4) Approve/revise agenda and time limits.
5) Review previous week's meeting. Any items not taken care of? Follow up.
6) For each agenda item, first define, then discuss:
a) CONTENT = what is discussed (topic or problem)7) Summarize meeting (note-taker) and make sure everyone agrees on what happened.b) PROCESS = how the topic is discussed (ie, brainstorming, go-around, presentation)
c) RESOLUTION = is a decision needed or are we just discussing? If a decision is necessary, define what kind of decision will be made (ie, consensus, voting)
d) ACTION = record what action was decided on, who is responsible, and the date by which they have to accomplish the action
8) Set roles and agenda for next meeting.
9) Evaluate meeting.
10) Closure: Do some sort of formal ending of the meeting (a poem, a song, a reading, a 'check out' where each person says something; how the meeting went, what they're up to next, &c.).
Before next meeting
1) review meeting
2) follow up on action items
