Choose your event format

Select an event format that fits your community, goals, capacity, and budget.

The best format is the one your local team can deliver well. Events of any size can build community and create meaningful learning.

Choose based on your needs

Before choosing a format, consider:

• The experience and outcomes you want for attendees.

• Your available team, budget, venue, and technology.

• Access needs, local travel, and participation barriers.

Informal gathering

An informal gathering can work well for a new or smaller IA community. Bring people together to learn, share ideas, and discuss the global theme.

Use short talks, a facilitated discussion, a video screening, or peer networking. Keep the structure simple and make room for conversation.

Design slam or community challenge

Use a design slam to apply information architecture to a real local problem. Define a focused challenge, provide a clear process, and give teams enough time to share their work.

Choose a challenge that is appropriate for participant experience and available support. Explain how ideas will be used after the event.

Conference or program day

Larger communities may choose a half-day or full-day program. Combine presentations, panels, workshops, and breaks to create a balanced experience.

Plan realistic transitions, access support, and volunteer coverage. A half-day program can reduce venue, catering, and staffing costs.

Online and hybrid formats

Online and hybrid formats can expand access. They also need dedicated facilitation and tested technology.

Read Online and hybrid events before committing to remote participation.

Combine formats

You can combine formats to fit your goals. For example, start with presentations, then move into a workshop or community discussion.

Review Types of events for activity and session ideas.