For meetings with 2 to 8 participants the layout of the meeting room is crucial to the success of the meeting.
Boardroom Style
A boardroom style meeting room with a single rectangular table and chairs around the table is ideal for equal participation in discussions. Such meetings are typically used for decision making and are best suited for 6-8 people as all participants will have a clear view of each other.
Cluster or Cabaret
Cluster or Cabaret Style: This style of meeting room is ideal for very creative brainstorming sessions and workshops. It is perfect for teams who require to work in close proximity to each other and share materials. The informal setting of a cluster style meeting room is ideal for meetings where discussion is key and presenters are not required.
U-Shape
A U Shape layout using three tables with chairs set out around the outside of the shape creates a focal point at the open end for a presenter or screen. It is ideal for training sessions with up to 8 people and all can see the presenter/s and each other.
Classroom Rows
Rows facing a screen such as to deliver in a one-directional manner (e.g. a briefing or demonstration. Ideally a couple of rows of short length, so that the back row isn’t too far away.
Standing or Huddle
High tables without chairs or clear spaces for standing meetings are perfect for short, focused meetings of ten minutes to twenty minutes. Many Meeting Rooms Forest of Dean offer these informal meeting areas as an add on to your main room hire.
Make sure that the room can be adapted to your requirements – some meeting rooms are fixed and won’t work for your style of work or indeed for your number of attendees. Guidance for workspace and meeting room design states that natural light and ventilation are as important as the design of the table(s) and how they are laid out to ensure your attendees are working effectively and remain alert throughout the meeting.
In the end it is the style of work that your team is undertaking that is going to determine the best room layout.
