Step-by-Step
1. A network facilitator should be well prepared for his/her task and pay attention to the following points:
a. Visualizations simplify the understanding of complex issues.
b. Every participant should have a chance to speak, every opinion is important, but participants should be as brief as possible.
c. Mistakes may be made and questions may be asked.
d. The group should always find a balance between having fun and achieving the goal of the meeting.
2. Prepare methodically in advance for the project or network meeting:
a. What basic facilitation techniques can be used? (e.g., single-point/multi-point polling, question types, visualization, etc.).
b. What creative facilitation techniques are available? (e.g., idea carousel, mind mapping, 6-3-5, and pyramid discussion).
c. How do I evaluate discussions? How do I handle difficult facilitation situations and when might they occur?