Logistics for the Start-up Workshop
Workshop Logistics: Setting the Stage for Collaboration
A 100-Day Challenge Workshop is not a seminar; it is a high-energy “working session” designed to be engaging and collaborative. Because the methodology involves breakaway groups and people constantly moving around the space to brainstorm and prioritise, the physical environment is just as important as the agenda.
Deep Dive Video
Setting the Stage
The Venue: Think “Huddle,” Not “Lecture”
The layout of your room determines how the team interacts.
- Best Set-up: Small tables that allow people to sit in groups. This encourages natural conversation and quick transitions to breakaway work.
- Avoid: Auditoriums, classrooms, or formal boardrooms with one massive table. These layouts make movement difficult and reinforce a “passive listening” hierarchy that we want to avoid. If the layout do not allow for small group huddles, see how you can rearrange the furniture to break the “boardroom” feel.
Stationery & Supplies: Capturing the Spark
You need the right tools to make ideas visible and moveable. Ensure you have:
- Flip-chart stands: Have enough paper and markers for both your templates and for the Team to use during their brainstorming sessions.
- Post-it Notes: These are essential for moving ideas around and categorising thoughts quickly.
- Basics: Plenty of extra paper and pens for all participants.
The Tech Kit: Keeping the Momentum
Technical glitches can kill the energy in a room. Come prepared with:
- Visuals & Sound: A laptop, projector, and screen. Crucial: Ensure you have working sound to play videos during the session.
- The “Offline” Backup: Download all videos to your laptop beforehand in case the Wi-Fi is unreliable.
- Power Security: If possible, have a backup power supply to keep the momentum going during load shedding or outages.
Documents & Digital Tools
- Physical Prints: Keep it simple—only print the Agenda and the Attendance Register.
- Digital Feedback: Prepare your Mentimeter workshop feedback survey in advance so it’s ready to go at the end of the day.
The “No Business-As-Usual” Rule
In the 100-Day Challenge, we value active participation over passive reading. Do not print out the slides for participants. We want them focused on the conversations and the work at hand, not reading ahead in a packet.
Refreshments
Keep the team “hydrated and happy.” Ensure there is plenty of water on the tables and provide refreshments based on the duration of your workshop to keep energy levels high.
Download a Workshop Logistics Checklist:
