EVENT PROGRAMMING 101
HOW TO CREATE AN ENGAGING EVENT
WOULD I COME TO MY OWN EVENT?
An event program is a structured outline detailing the activities for your event. It covers all the essential details about an event’s purpose, budget, entertainment, and other elements.
Define the Event Objectives and Attendee Expectations
Why am I doing this event?
Who will benefit and who will attend?
Does it align with UMSU’s strategic goals?
Develop Event Concept and Theme
What vibe do I want my event to have?
Is there an existing theme/event I want to connect to (i.e. Halloween, Mental Health awareness, Melbourne Fringe)
What can I do to make this event fun – e.g. include AVM, sustainable decorations, performers?
Establish the Budget and Resourcing
Can I pass the money for this event in time?
How many people do I need to cater for?
Can I attend on the day, and do I have the help I need from my committee to deliver this event?
Decide on a Date, Time and preferred location
Do I have at least six weeks lead time to secure my preferred location and time?
Do I have enough time to tell my community about my event?
Do I have a backup plan if my time, date or location is not available?
Consider Parallel Sessions – Collaborate!
Are there any other departments happening at the same time as my event?
Have I talked to other departments about possibly collaborating?
Are there similar events happening too close to my event?
Incorporate Social Gatherings and Activities
Are there activities that people can do together?
Is my event accessible?
Is there enough to activities to keep my audience for the whole event?
Regularly Evaluate and Improve
Have I scheduled a debrief with my committee to talk about how the event went?
Can I make a feedback survey, so I know what my audience thought?
What have I learned from this event that I can take to the next event?