To Begin

• Who are you programming for?
• What will keep your audience captivated throughout a performance?
• What message are you trying to convey?
• What spaces are available for your program?
• How much money do you have available for the event?
• What is the best way to advertise to your target audience?
• What programs have worked in the past? What made these programs work?

Brainstorming

• Gather ideas about who you want to be your target population.
• Develop a list of resources will you need for the program?
• What roles do your committee/organizational members want to play?
• Listen to as many ideas as possible.

Goal Setting

• Set your goals, objectives, and timeline.
• What resources are available to you?
• Are there any limitations? (money, resources, scheduling)

Implementing Program

• Set and maintain budget for expenses. Make sure you account for receipt and use a tax-exempt form.
• Pick a theme or program topic.
• Reserve a space/venue for program. Make sure to fill out the proper paperwork. (Space Reservation Forms, Facilities Request, or audiovisual needs request).
• Finalize a date and time.
• Plan an event outline.
• Do a practice run through of the event with organization members.
• Plan set up of the room, where the audience will be and in what capacity.
• Run publicity campaign.
• Obtain program materials and supply requests.
• Set up a food contract if needed. (Who is serving food/ordering?)
• Do you have any special needs (audio equipment, VCR, microphones, VCR, extension cords).
• Make sure to return borrowed materials and events.
• Pay Bills.
• Send Thank you cards to facilitators, guest presenters, and events staff.

Afterword

• How did audience respond?
• Did program achieve organization’s goals?
• Did the committee plan effectively?
• Did the program run smoothly.
• Would you present the program again?
• Did you stay within budget/ did you make needed revenue?

Evaluation

• Evaluate the overall program- get different perspectives from audience and staff feedback.
• Collect feedback and suggestions.
• Keep a file so that the appropriate changes can be made next year if the event was repeated.
• Make recommendations for improvement.
• Was your program well rounded? – You may have pulled off an excellent event but did every member pull their own weight. Were the preparation tasks carried out?