How To Learn From Every Event

You did it!  Your event is over, and I hope everything went smoothly. Before you completely put it out of your mind, take some time to evaluate how it went. This step is particularly valuable if you plan to host events in the future. Make notes for reference - don't assume you'll remember everything. It's best if you can sit and down and write out your thoughts within a day or two after the event. Then put those notes in a safe place with other information you want to save.

Personal Reflection

Y  How did you publicize your event? Do you think your methods were effective?
Y  How many attendees did you have? Was that more or less than expected?
Y  Did you give yourself enough time to set up and take down?
Y  How were the decorations and overall atmosphere received?
Y  How much food did you provide - was it enough or too much?
Y  Was the food well received?
Y  Was the timing of the program or activities balanced?
Y  Did you need more or less time than expected?
Y  Was the event memorable for attendees?
Y  What went well that you would want to repeat next time?
Y  What would you do differently?
Y  Did you go over or under budget in particular areas?
Y  Could you have used more outside help?
Y  Would you use the same vendors again? Why or why not?
Y  Was the location ideal for your needs?
Y  Were there any emergencies you could better prepare for next time?
Y  If this is a fundraising event, did you earn what you expected?
Y  Was communication with your team clear and effective?

Y  Most importantly, did you meet the objectives and goals you set at the beginning of the planning process?

Outside Feedback

Getting feedback from your support team is also helpful. They likely experienced the event from a different perspective than you did. Ask some of these same questions of them. If it helps them be more open, consider an anonymous feedback method such as a google form.

Depending on the event type, consider getting feedback from the attendees as well. Is there anything they would like to see done differently in the future? This is particularly useful for recurring event, such as corporate trainings or annual fundraisers.

If you worked with vendors, request feedback from them too. This can strengthen your working relationship and help improve future collaborations.

While gathering evaluations, it's also a good time to thank those who supported you in planning this event (see "Thanking Your Support").

Don't be hard on yourself. Planning an event of any size brings both positive and negative emotions. You may be feeling pride, relief, disappointment, embarrassment, or any other range of potentially exhausting emotions. This evaluation isn't meant to criticize your efforts - it is a way to gather information objectively so you can make the next event even better. If this is a recurring event, use your notes as a guide to 'train' the person planning next year - even if that person is you!

You've got this!

Christina
Abean Assist

Back to the Event Planning Guide overview

Suggested Event Resources