About Resource
The Rockefeller Foundation is a large philanthropy that has convened cross-sector actors from government, private sector, civil society and community sectors for over 50 years. Informed by practices in strategy consulting, user-experience design, behavioral sciences, and event management, the Foundation compiled Convening Design, a high-level guide to designing and producing impactful strategic convenings.
The guide provides:
- Five core elements of impactful convenings
- Considerations for where to start planning
- Sample agendas and tasks according to convening type
- Tips and Tricks to employ before, during, and after a convening
How to Use
Strategic convenings are marked by higher stakes than a typical meeting; they are an intentional practice to foster conversation that leads to a specific, intended action. As such, they represent a powerful tool to advance community science. The heightened demand for intentional design, flawless execution, and committed action to follow-up can be resource intensive for both organizers and participants. Consult “The Right Tool?” matrix for helpful considerations before committing to a convening, such as if your team/organization is the best entity to host such an event and if the timing is optimal.
After committing to plan a strategic convening, clarify its purpose and objectives using one of the four Convening Typologies: Map a Landscape, Forge Alliances, Discover a Path Forward, and Accelerate Action. Accompanying sample agendas, meeting activities, and facilitation Tips & Tricks provide helpful guidance to both first time organizing teams and seasoned conveners looking to re-ground their practice in proven techniques.
Whether the convening is held in-person or virtually, ensure a seamless event with a well-organized team and central project manager. The Team Organizing Chart is a simple tool to help clarify your team members’ role(s) ahead of, during, and after the convening.