Setting Goals and Objectives

Identifying the purpose of a facilitated discussion, meeting, or session is a critical first step in the planning process. The purpose must be acceptable to both the organization and prospective attendees.  

A key question should be posed to clearly identify the purpose: Why is this facilitated discussion important to our organization, department/faculty, key stakeholders, and/or partners?  

A variety of reasons may be identified including developing ideas, planning, solving problems, making decisions, developing an understanding, encouraging enthusiasm or support, establishing direction, or creating a common purpose.  

The next step is to determine the best course of action to establish a clear set of goals and objectives for the session. Two approaches may be considered:

• Cascading. Develop a set goals and objectives prior to the facilitated discussion.
• Co-creating. The goals and objectives are determined with the participants at the commencement of the session.