The Process of Focus Forum

Book excerpt: When forum works, it is life changing. When it doesn't, forum can be a frustrating waste of time. The key to success is having a sound process. Focus Forum is a proven process that represents best practices for maximizing the benefits and minimizing the risks of forums. Focus Forum is different than other forum processes in several ways. First, Focus Forum is designed specifically for entrepreneurs. Focus Forums by design move very fast, so members get more done in the same amount of time as members in other types of forum. As a result, Focus Forum provides the highest possible value and benefit for members. And finally, Focus Forums are self-run - they rely on the mutual commitment and responsibility of all members to make the forum work. The Process of Focus Forum is a guidebook for building and maintaining an effective forum. It outlines a simple yet powerful method that can be followed by any forum, including: members' roles and responsibilities; ground rules for building mutual respect, commitment, trust and confidentiality; the structure and format of forum meetings; areas to avoid in order to prevent potential problems; and ways to leverage your forum experience to maximize your personal and professional success.