If you have never planned a workshop before, it can be an intimidating prospect, but this step-by-step process will set you off in the right direction.
 
DEFINE OBJECTIVES
Write down why you need a workshop, what you aim to achieve by the end if it and the tangible outputs that will be produced.
 
IDENTIFY ATTENDEES
Who has to be there to achieve these objectives? What is the smallest possible group? Who else would contribute relevant knowledge or creativity? For larger groups, retreat-like events can be organized that utilize many of the same principles and techniques as workshops, but these require advanced logistical skills and bigger budgets.
 
CHOOSE DATE(S), DURATION & LOCATION
You’ll almost certainly need to revise these later as you plan in more detail, but it’s helpful to have ideas in mind at the start. The best locations have plenty of space, natural light and an uplifting, creative atmosphere.
 
OUTLINE OF SESSIONS
Working back from the desired outcomes, think of the main 'chunks’ that will need to be included in the workshop. Then, for each of those segments, figure out what the session with involve, including the co-creation activities it should include (see Ice Breakers).
 
ICEBREAKERS, ENERGIZERS AND BREAKS
To help attendees stay alert, creative and motivated throughout the workshop, you’ll need to include an icebreaker at the start and energizers every few hours (see Energizers). Allow time for 15-minute breaks about every hour and a half.
 
DETAILED AGENDA
A detailed agenda helps orientate participants and makes it easier to stick to the schedule. Below is an example of an agenda for a one-day workshop. This template is for a workshop in which participants need to be equipped with a lot of information before they can begin brainstorming, which won’t always be necessary.