Developing an Agenda

Here are some tips for putting an agenda together: List goals and objectives for the meeting Select agenda items with care. Don’t overload the agenda – give yourself plenty of time to go over the issues of importance Think out the proper order of the agenda items. Action items should come first. These are items that members must act on, and they should be discussed first to ensure that there is adequate time for discussion. Also, keep in mind that issues arousing more emotion should be carefully placed on the agenda. Place informational items last, since reports can be abbreviated or submitted in writing if necessary. Identify the person responsible for presenting each item. Be sure the presenter is adequately notified and prepared. Send the presenter the agenda, indicating the amount of time the presenter will be given. Estimate the time required for each item, but don’t establish a rigid time table. Prepare a summary of participants, materials needed and other reminders that will facilitate your preparation for the meeting.