An unconference is a participant-driven event that is structured differently from traditional conferences. Instead of a pre-set agenda and schedule dictated by organizers, an unconference is organized around the interests and expertise of attendees, allowing them to shape discussions and activities dynamically. Here’s how it generally works:
No Pre-Set Agenda:
The topics are usually decided on the day of the event by the attendees. Participants suggest topics they want to discuss, vote on them, and then schedule sessions based on popularity and interest.
Collaborative and Interactive Sessions:
Sessions often focus on discussion, brainstorming, and problem-solving rather than one-way presentations. The focus is on participation and open exchange, with attendees actively engaging and sharing knowledge rather than listening passively to speakers.
Participant-Led Sessions:
Anyone can lead a session, regardless of title or formal expertise. Session leaders are usually facilitators rather than presenters, guiding discussions and encouraging input from all participants.
Flexible Structure:
Unconferences are adaptive, with topics and sessions adjusted based on attendee interest. Participants can freely move between sessions (a concept known as the “Law of Two Feet”), allowing them to leave a session that doesn’t meet their needs and join one that does.
Focus on Networking and Community Building:
By removing rigid hierarchies and formalities, unconferences encourage deeper networking and community engagement. People build connections through shared interests, knowledge sharing, and collaborative problem-solving.
Opening Session: The event starts with an open discussion where participants suggest topics.
Session Creation: Attendees vote on or rank the topics, which are then scheduled into time slots.
Breakout Sessions: Each session is informal and interactive, focusing on discussions, workshops, or collaborative work.
Closing Session: Many unconferences wrap up with a final gathering to discuss insights, takeaways, and any follow-up actions.
Popular Examples and Use Cases
BarCamp: One of the most well-known unconference formats, focused on technology, startups, and creative topics.
Open Space Technology: A broader format of unconference where topics are chosen by participants and sessions evolve as needed.
Lean Coffee: A structured but agenda-less meeting format where participants create the topics and discuss them based on priority.