Event Garde<\/a><\/strong> shares seven tips below for objectively and thoughtfully auditing your learning-oriented events. Done right, the process can take some time, and you may feel like you are fighting old ways kept in the name of tradition. However, an events audit can yield new traditions that engage attendees in ways that serve their continuing education needs better than before, keep them coming back, and turn casual\u00a0attendees into full-fledged members.<\/em><\/p>\nQ:<\/strong> I\u2019m feeling pressure from my organization to conduct a learning audit. Will it\u00a0really benefit my organization? And what does it involve?<\/p>\nA:<\/strong> A learning audit is a systematic review of either a stand-alone program or an entire meetings portfolio to\u00a0determine its strengths and weaknesses, with the aim of guiding subsequent improvements. Outcomes can\u00a0include a stronger brand, an elevated reputation and more loyal participation.<\/p>\nThe most successful businesspeople approach their work with intentionality. Following are seven entrepreneurial\u00a0secrets, as originally imagined by Peter Economy for Inc.com, with a learning-audit spin.<\/p>\n
1.\u00a0Build a solid relationship bridge.<\/strong> Identify key stakeholders who are affected by learning programs in your
\norganization. Develop, implement and monitor a communication plan that ensures their buy-in and engagement.<\/p>\n2.\u00a0Slow down to lead.<\/strong> Carefully identify the three buckets that comprise your learning portfolio:
\nin-person programs, digital programs and other resources that have the potential to educate your audience
\n(e.g., blogs, newsletters, websites, magazines).<\/p>\n3.\u00a0Choose your mindset<\/strong>. A big-picture audit identifies for each of your three buckets the overall mix,
\ntrends and relationship to your organization\u2019s body of knowledge. A detailed audit drills down to measure
\nthe attainment of established outcomes for each program.<\/p>\n4. Know your business \u201chealth\u201d metrics.<\/strong> Gather program metrics via in-person interviews or focus
\ngroups and aggregate evaluation or survey data and environmental scanning exercises. Be prepared to make
\ncorrections as necessary.<\/p>\n5. Be determined.<\/strong> Stay the course by customizing the standard audit tools and processes, enlisting the
\nsupport of your professional network (e.g., a colleague with learning audit experience) or seeking the advice
\nof a trusted consultant.<\/p>\n6.\u00a0Resolve to succeed.<\/strong> Develop a report according to stakeholder needs and wants\u2014either written or
\nverbal (or both). In crafting the report, carefully consider the length, the language used and whether or not
\nto include the raw data.<\/p>\n7. Be prepared to swim upstream.<\/strong> At this stage it\u2019s time to implement new ideas and recommendations
\nand to sunset underperforming or mature programs, products and services. While it won\u2019t be easy, it\u2019s necessary
\nfor long-term growth.<\/p>\nThis piece originally appeared in Michigan Meetings + Events.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>
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