On-Site vs. Off-Site Meetings

Getting people together for a meeting can be a great way to share information, make decisions and create group cohesion. But should you plan those meetings to take place within your physical business location or take them off-site?  Here are some pro's and cons to both options.

On-Site

Pros:
No travel time, so it may cut the total time of your meeting down.
If you forget something, or need anything additional for the meeting you still have easy access.
Save money.
Can probably utilize more audio visual aides and with your own equipment.

Cons:
May be difficult to get people to step away from their daily duties and focus on the meeting.
It is easier for others within the company, who are not involved in the meeting, to interupt.

Off-site

Pros:
Sometimes leaving the office and getting away for a bit can inspire creativity and team bonding.
Can allow you to double the meeting as an employee appreciation as well!
If you don't have great audio/visual equipment, choose an off-site location that does.

Cons:
Travel time to the location may add time to the length of the meeting
If you forget something - too bad!
Be careful when choosing a location - external factors such as noise or lots of activity not associated with your group can be distracting.

Cheers!

Kristen