Training Room Layout

Room Layouts suitable for group training

So you are having a training session or meeting – have you considered what layout would be best for you?

Have you ever had a meeting in a room that was in a different configuration from your usual format?

Was the meeting more or less effective than normal?

This guide can be used when you ‘book’ or hire a training or meeting room. Remember to state the layout and the number of participants required.

Importance of effective room layout

Room layout should not just be set by the number of people required, but by the purpose of the event.

Key factors: –Where is the centre of attention –Do people need to interact with each other? –Do you want people in groups without moving people around?

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Lecture Theatre – room layout

Advantages – If room is well designed, excellent visibility

Disadvantages – Poor trainer/ participant contact, Back rows should be elevated, University like

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U Shape – room layout

Advantages – Business Like, Trainer can walk into U

Disadvantages – Formal, Front participants having to look at an angle

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Seminar/ Amphitheatre – room layout

Advantages and disadvantages as Lecture theatre

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Herring Bone – room layout

Advantages – Space effective for large numbers, All participants are at a good angle to the front, Trainer can walk down spine

Disadvantages – Several participants hidden by others, Reminiscent of school, Encourages dysfunctioning groups, Relatively poor contact

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BoardRoom – room layout

Advantages - Good for small groups, can see/ interact with others, can share resources, creates equality

Disadvantages – Difficult for some to ‘see the front’,

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Circle or ’round’ room layout

Advantages - Creates Equality, Good for small groups, can see/ interact with others, can share resources

Disadvantages – Formal, participants having to look at an angle

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Cabaret, Gala or Bistro – room layout

or

Advantages – Good for larger numbers, Good for group work, Encourages mixing, Trainer can circulate

Disadvantages – Some participants will have poor visibility, May encourage lack of attention, Needs multimadia (PA & mic for best effect)

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Summary

When you run your meeting or training event, its not just room layout that is important, its about matching the room layout with the trainers style, the material to be covered and the required outcomes. The room shape and design can make or break an event.

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RapidBI is an organizational effectiveness consultancy based in the UK but working internationally.
© RapidBI & Mike Morrison 2011 - this article/ page is free to copy and use on the condition that an active link back and reference is made to this site and page. Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.

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