ASKFOOD is in itself, a birther of innovation. This is why the unconference format seemed fitting to run events within the Reversed Incubator approach.
Unconferences are a more relevant, engaging, and interactive event format.
Despite a lack of pre-planning on the face of things, Unconferences still actually require a number of important components to be in place to be a genuine success - most of which are explained in this page.
What is an Unconference?
Unconferences represent a shift from formal conferences, to events where attendees are given the freedom to create the event they wanted.
There is no pre-planned agenda - instead, participants convene sessions on whatever topic they like on the morning of the Unconference, claiming a time slot and location.
Unconferences make for great events for a number of reasons. Ultimately, they allow attendees to cover a wider range of less common topics and probe difficult, unusual and rapidly changing areas of interest. Unconferences are particularly suited for industries where change is rapid and those where creative thinking is essential. If you work within a sector that is struggling with event attendance and engagement with your events then Unconferences can really shake things up and get people interested again. With larger more traditional conferences, there is pressure to focus on more general and crowd-pulling topics whereas Unconferences allow attendees to go niche and explore what interests them.
Unconferences are also good for the following:
- Peer-to-peer learning
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Increased engagement as attendees provide the themes
The Format of an Unconference
The basic format of an Unconference is as follows:
- Welcome – cover the basics of how the day will work as well as any venue house-keeping details
- Scheduling – setting the agenda for the day
- Attendee-lead Sessions
- Lunch
- Attendee-lead Sessions
- Afternoon break
- Attendee-lead Sessions
Education – How to Prepare Attendees
Most conferences are very structured with each presentation, talk and round-table allotted a time slot and location well in advance. The talks will be meticulously planned and the format of the day largely set in stone. Unconferences are not like this at all and not everyone will be familiar with the format or practicalities of an Unconference so it’s important that you give them prior warning and plenty of informative tips.
Make them aware of the following points to help them prepare:
- It’s best that each session topic has an angle – one that encourages debate and discussion. Make this clear and also share some tips on running a session prior to the event.
- It’s important that session hosts stick to the timetable and don’t let their sessions over run – remind them to be aware of those waiting for the next session
- The timetable is likely to change during the day so remind people to keep checking back
For more information, you can visit 20 Bedford Way's website as they have an inclusive guide on the organisation of Unconference events
