You're organizing a live event. How can you streamline your scheduling process?

I have found that beginning with the target audience in mind is a wise way to get the best out of everything....events and content creation alike. You are able to deliver a product that is suitable and provides value to your community hence you get trusted and appeal to more people as a brand.

I find that finding a semi-universal theme for a live event is the best start to planning, as it give equal opportunity for a larger audience and will entice new clientele and invigorate repeat customers to attend. Semi-universal themes give ample opportunity for a larger turn out of multiple audiences not just catering to a specific group. Having multiple facets to events are the key to the events success those including but limited to multiple speakers, local vendors, with food and drinks available. Time is a key player when planning an event in order to make sure that there is just enough time for guests to participate in almost all activities over a period of 4-5 hours evening or mid-day for the best attendance possible.

One thing I find helpful is to always think about the audience's POV. Often live events are designed with goals and delivery in mind but the most important thing is not just what you deliver, it's what the audience take-away, their experience, what will they remember and how will they feel at this live event. Not to mention every attendee counts.

Creating a schedule for an event is a custom operation. Yes you can use the same template but each event will have different tracks, time frames and more. Using a document that can be duplicated while customized when needed.

Always having a checklist to guide the process goes a long way in ensuring effortless planning. With every achievement you cross off the checklist, you are able to to stay on track not forgetting any deliverables within the planning phase.

Creating a master schedule streamlines the event for those involved in communication, timing and attendance. Having a master schedule prevents any confusion between staff and attendees.

Staying on track is one thing, staying in sync is another. One of the most vital things with a live event is having everyone on the same page. All the elements work in unison to deliver the event. A Master schedule helps with that.

You are able to be more efficient because you are less worked up. Be intentional about following up on tasks that you have assigned to people. Request feedback, criticise, correct where need be. This offers a mentorship opportunity as well.

Sometimes you do not get the luxury to do a dry run...maybe because of availability issues etc... Ensure to stay ready, be flexible and willing to change on the spot in case anything changes on Dday and you had not anticipated it.

Yes. Also stay authentic while at it. You need to do your best to ensure the success of the event and you do this to provide value to all who signed up and attended the event.

Something to also consider is Feedback. After the event, ask attendees for feedback as this a more direct form of consumer insights which you can use to improve future events.