Summary

Identify the purpose of the meeting, determine the specific objectives for the meeting.
Make sure the right people will be in attendance. Delegate coordination of scheduling of multiple individuals to administrative assistant if available.
Assign roles: chair, facilitator, recorder.
Schedule meeting time, place, and set duration.
Develop the agenda (include attendee's in this process whenever possible). Determine which format and techniques for discussion and problem solving will be incorporated.
Prepare necessary materials, handouts, delegate when appropriate.
Verify meeting room has appropriate set up, equipment, capacity, and refreshments if applicable.
Be sure participants receive a copy of the tentative agenda and are informed of any preparation or materials they may be asked to provide.
Agree on ground rules, or follow previously established ground rules.
Use consensus-building decision making techniques.
Facilitate discussion to manage conflict as it surfaces.
Specify "next steps" and assignments.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the meeting.
Distribute minutes to document topics covered and assigned tasks, and to communicate process to members not present or other interested parties.