It takes time to design and conduct an online workshop that is efficient and takes into account the difficulties that can arise when working remotely. However, the process has to be flexible and able to quickly adjust on the fly is just as crucial for virtual facilitators (the person who ensures the session runs smoothly and actively engages participants) as it is in-person.
A successful online meeting or workshop requires an appropriate balance between sharing information discussions, group discussion and other engagement activities, and addressing the logistical issues caused by poor technology, inadequate time management and note-taking. Often, it falls to the virtual facilitator to take care of each of these elements which can be difficult and stressful, especially when the sessions are poorly run or ineffective.
Virtual facilitation is becoming more common as organizations have to meet the demands for flexible meeting times and for groups to work remotely. It’s an art that can only be learned through practice and isn’t that much different than facilitators in person, except for the added task of motivating and involving remote participants throughout the session.
Numerous studies have pointed out the importance of adjusting VF to the specific organization structure and the specific cultural characteristics of each site. This was particularly emphasized by Fox et al., who provided facilitators with guidelines for a minimum amount of virtual facilitation interactions per center. Other studies, like those of Malone et. and. and Hartmann included a portion of training for facilitators within the organization, which focused on building competences, skills and knowledge that is specifically associated with virtual facilitation.
https://mergerdataroom.blog/how-to-boost-virtual-facilitation-among-clients-and-coworkers/
