In recent years it has become an increasing necessity to enhance flexible and remote working practices. The main initial misconception is that the key to unlocking the benefits of remote working sits with the technology, if you utilise video conferencing along with online collaboration tools then you have a winning formula to a high performing remote workforce. Whilst the tools and technology carry a level of importance, I have found taking a well rounded approach to remote practices will provide a better experience and thus a more engaged audience. This includes taking into consideration competency and maturity of audience for participating in remote meetings, what about time in between meetings (how do you know work is happening), how do you keep people engaged during the workshop?

A workshop is a common and versatile technique which is adopted and understood by most areas of our technology directorate and therefore will be used as our subject area whilst discussing remote practices.

Like any good physical workshop, delivering it remotely still requires 3 main areas, planning, execution and follow up- All 3 are equally important and taking into consideration some of the following has helped us deliver more effective remote workshops.

PLANNING-

· Deciding on which tools is most appropriate- how will you host — think about what you are trying to achieve, Generating ideas (Divergent/convergent),Kick off meeting/context meeting, general update. What sort of communication tools will be required (Instant messaging/Voice/Video/Presentation/Online screens). Skype for business is the most common tool as it is versatile ie covers most of the tools/needs above, but teams is becoming more popular destination for facilitation especially if delivering to a stable and established team that has a dedicated space within the tool.

· How will you notify of the meeting? Usually via calendar invite, but you may have a virtual team space that can be used to notify participants

· Will you be using any specific tools that require sign-up/access prior to the meeting

· Will you be using any specific tools that require training for less tech literate users

· Send agenda/pre read out before

· Are your audience all in the same time zone? Consider cultural differences (Third party related)

EXECUTION-

· Go on mute if you are not talking/participating

· If one is online, everyone should be online

· Recommended to use video rather than just voice

· How will you take notes if presenting online

· Use visual cues/guides to engage audience

· Participation using polls/surveys/ idea generation will also help with engagement

· Ask questions and use first names to be clear who the question is directed to

ISSUES WITH LIVE WORKSHOPS

· Connection/network problems

· People are connected but not engaged or even listening (unless their name is mentioned)

· Conflict and reactions are difficult to spot

FOLLOW UP-

· Were there any actions for execution? Make sure these are understand,documented and communicated after

· Receive feedback (what will you use to capture)

· Using any lessons to apply to next workshop