GOAL: Transform a general idea to a specific scheme.
Begin far in advance to develop the specifics of meeting purpose, meeting type, date, location, cost, meeting announcement, necessary contacts to make, and deadlines.
Develop specific meeting purpose, goal, or theme.

. . .	why are you having this meeting?
. . .	what do you want your audience to learn?
. . .	identify your audience. Who are they? What is their age and experience? What methods will best suit your eduacational intent?
. . .	compose a brief but specific meeting purpose.

Decide on the type of meeting to offer.

. . .	whom will you get to do the teaching?
. . .	what type of meeting will best suite your specific meeting purpose? --workshop --lecture --demonstration --tour --group discussion --other?

Select meeting date(s) and time of day or evening.

. . .	a timely date when information given will be relevant.
. . .	compatible with availability of meeting location, speakers, and requried equipment.
. . .	avoid times when other major activities may interfere--county, school, major sporting events, etc.

Select meeting location.

. . .	sized for anticipated group?
. . .	is it accessible from all points? Are there road signs or markers?
. . .	will the location work regardles of weather?
. . .	meeting room free of external noise and commotion?
. . .	sufficient parking available?
. . .	can meeting room be dimmed for visual presentations?
. . .	will the room fit for the particular type of meeting you offer?
. . .	can snack or meal arrangements be made?

List contacts to be made and who is responsible.

. . .	meeting location contact person.
. . .	speakers and equipment.
. . .	food and entertainment
. . .	decorations, exhibits, special programs.
. . .	publicity and special printing.
. . .	tour transportation contacts.

Budget of meeting costs.

. . .	develop a budget of meeting costs.
. . .	how will costs be recovered?
. . .	is advance registration needed?
. . .	will special bank account be needed?
. . .	checks made payable to?

Meeting announcements.

. . .	select target date to distribute meeting announcement.
. . .	methods to publicize.