The most effective format for a boardroom is one that suits the size of your group, the meeting topic and desired level of interaction. Each layout has its advantages and disadvantages and there are a myriad of other factors that affect the success of a workshop or conference.
The traditional boardroom layout consists of a table in the center of the room. There are seats around it. Most often used for agenda-focused meetings and video conferences that require discussions, this design can accommodate up to 25 people. It’s best for groups that have one designated leader who can guide the group and ensure that the group is focused.
Similar to a conference table with tables placed closer together, the classroom layout provides improved line of vision for the participants and can hold more than 20 people. This type of layout is more suitable for workshops with smaller groups and group discussions as opposed to the traditional boardroom layout which can feel uncomfortable for certain.
The theater layout is another popular choice for presentations or workshops that have a a large audience. It has rows of chairs facing the front. This layout places the focus on the audience and allows speakers to focus their attention on specific delegates or sections of the audience. This arrangement may not be as engaging however it will keep the audience interested and engaged during sessions that last longer than an hour.