Technology is changing everything else about business, why hasn’t it changed meetings more?
Well, you do have technology being used in new ways for meetings—in terms of conference calls and videoconferences. And some companies, like IBM, are making use of sophisticated electronic meeting technologies such as GroupSystems. But they are the exception. There’s still a considerable investment needed to use that kind of technology. If you are trapped in a frustrating meeting led by someone else, what can you do? If the leader isn’t providing proper guidance you can ask questions. What are the constraints of the group? When do we have to have things done? What are our roles? Are we to make the final decision or serve as an advisory committee—that’s often not made clear. People in the meeting can make guiding comments, “I’d like to hear what John has to say.” Or, “Why don’t we go around the room and have everyone give a suggestion?” Most of the things a group leader can do, a group member can do, especially if you are trying to get other people’s comments. How important is being abl
