You probably heard the sad news, did you? It seems amazing after all these years, and with so many times we've relied on him.. but it's true.
Old 'U' is dead.
Yes folks, the U shaped table format of large group meetings has had it's day. I know, I know, it seems hard to believe. But hey, if you're not convinced, check it out for youself. Have a look next time you go to a 'U' meeting and you'll soon notice something... there's no life or passion. Just slow drawn out ways of exchanging info, limited opportunities for everyone to actively contribute, and few tangible signs of energy, alignment and momentum.
But where one door closes, somewhere a window opens. New ways of using space in meetings have been born and the signs are looking good. A dead meeting can be 'U' turned into an energised, participative forum where movement and variety drive more productive and passionate outcomes for all participants.
Which is why we wanted to share some of these simple insights about the use of space and movement in this month's feature article "Make a U turn in a Dead End Meeting". They are 'Just do it' tips that you can immediately apply.
You'll also see our regular Gig of the Month, and Venue of the month, to help you with ideas for your next round of conference planning. Happy reading, and as always, please tell us what you think.
regards
David Pointon
Managing Director
DaPo Conference Events
Make a U turn in a Dead End Meeting
It is sad but true. The good old 'U' shape that we have come to know so well has had it's day. Like the horse and cart , the U is an old fashioned structure that can't support new meeting technologies. These innovations in meeting processes are driving faster, deeper knowledge sharing, higher levels of participation, engagement and relationship building and delivering more energised, aligned and focussed participants.
Fortunately, unlike the cart, we don't need to throw out the old meeting furniture. Instead, by utilising the space inside and outside meeting rooms and venues more creatively, it is possible to support more productive communication.
David Pointon, MD, DaPo Conference Events shares tips on how to loosen up the use of physical space when planning and running meetings, for more energised, engaging and productive outcomes
Team Treasure Trove - Reckitt Benckiser
Following a record year of sales and profits, Reckitt Benckiser Australia held a whole company celebration and team building day. Based at Darling Harbour, they sought an interactive team event which would provide challenge and fun, encourage them to work as one group.
"Feel it, Find it, Live it was exactly what we wanted ... a challenging team building event which brought people from across the company closer together. The design and delivery of the treasure hunt was first class fun"
Andy Hedges – Managing Director – Reckitt Benckiser
Murder in the Vineyards- Peppers Guest House
The Operations Management Team of a nation wide Food manufacturer wanted to entertain and celebrate their successes in an exclusive conference setting. Peppers Guest House, Hunter Valley was their choice of venue.
This case study shows how Peppers flexible venue options and service, a wine speaker, and A Meeting with Murder™ were combined to deliver a great team team experience for the client
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