Facilitating remote workshops

Post-pandemic, many companies switched to flexible working or working from home. This means that you might need to facilitate your design workshops online.

Remote workshops have a number of challenges. Common problems include difficulties creating a strong emotional rapport, low engagement, distractions, and technical difficulties. On the plus side, taking your meeting online can save travel time and money for your organization and, in the case of long-distance travel, benefit the environment.

Shared workspace canvases like Miro, FigJam, Mural, and others can help you think visually. Scheduling tools like Calendly or Rally make it easier to find the best time to meet with everyone on your team. Tools like SurveyMonkey and TypeForm are great for getting feedback.^[1]

The Nielsen Norman Group lists 3 essential steps to take when planning remote workshops:

1. Prepare files in advance with tools that your team is comfortable with using.
2. Make time for team building and warm-ups, and plan extra time for each workshop activity. Run an asynchronous workshop if your team does not have time for a synchronous session.
3. Clearly communicate expectations and goals before, during, and after the workshop with written reminders, invitations, and verbal reminders.^[2]