How to Write an Issues-Based Agenda

Issues-based agendas are commonly used by a variety of organizations.

Issues-based agendas are used by businesses, scholars, organizations and others who are seeking to understand or address events, processes or phenomena. These agendas can be organized in a number of ways, depending on the issues and the group tackling them. However, writing the agenda can be reduced to a fairly straightforward process.

Instructions

1. Brainstorm issues. Before the agenda is written, brainstorm the most important issues that can be dealt with during the meeting, either alone or in a group. During brainstorming, come up with as many issues as seem relevant, then cut issues based on importance as you prepare to write the agenda.

2. Define the issues in priority order. The issues dealt with in the agenda will vary depending on the group addressing them; however, issues can be ranked in order of importance and/or severity. They can also be ranked in terms of temporal priority: Which issue needs to be dealt with first? Second? Last? When defining these issues, give a brief summary of what they are and number them.

3. List actionable items under each issue. Once the issues are listed, the agenda should track key points to be acted upon vis-a-vis the issue. These actions can be must-do or can be questions -- e.g. should we do A or B? These items may also be tied to specific individuals, groups, or offices.

4. List follow-up items. Issues-based agendas will often include items that will re-appear on the agenda in the future, as the issue persists and develops. So, use the agenda to keep a running list of important information about items that are to be followed up on as the issue unfolds.

References

• Elvon: Effective Meetings, Agendas and Writing Minutes
• Effective Meetings: Meeting Planning