<aside> 💡 This page is filled with tips & tricks for you as a facilitator.

</aside>

Related The workshop checklist

The Facilitator

Even the best needs advice from time to time. Here is a collection of things that are good to keep in mind when planning and running your workshop. They are here to make it easier for you to create a great workshop that runs smoothly - all so you can focus on what's important which is reaching the goal of the workshop.

Here is a list of tips and tricks to help you along the way.

…on workshops

• Letting people write ideas alone in silence works better than you think (and it’s more effective to begin with.)
• Combine writing in silence (‣), followed by working in pairs and group discussions.
• Don’t stay stuck too long on one card. Move along and keep momentum.
• The kits are your co-facilitator. They structure and guide participants where you might not.
• See general practices at Exercises.
• See specific practices at The Kits

...on workshop planning

• Download for free (or buy the real deal) MethodKit on Workshops to think about the different elements & exercises of a workshop.
• Download (or buy) MethodKit for Workshop Planning to discuss how you want the workshop to function.
• Download Kit of Kits

…on kits

• Check out Design Principles to get a deeper understanding of MethodKit.
• To lay out the cards on a table is a good start.
• Pick them up and move them around, create your own structure.

…on material (also see Workshop material)

• Having the right material (and the right tools) are key to running a good workshop. Make sure to think about what you need.
• A big table (alt. many small) or plenty of wall space will work wonders.
• Use Post-its or a big roll of paper underneath.
• Use blu-tack to put them on walls.
• Thick pens makes it easier for people to read what others have written.
• Download and print Grids and Game boards.

...on how to present MethodKit

• Let people use it.
• It’s easier to experience workshops by using the kits. Let people try the kits. The discussion/game boards and grids are good ways to get people started.
• Only use the ’meta’ kits first if people are used with workshops & facilitation → for Workshop Planning, on Workshops or Kit of Kits. Facilitators need to think about meta things, but seldom all participants.