What Is an Unconference and How to Run One

An unconference is a participant-driven event format with no fixed agenda, schedule, or speakers. Unlike traditional conferences that rely on pre-selected experts and often one-way knowledge-sharing structures, the unconference model harnesses collective wisdom and experience among attendees. 

‍

Interactive, immersive, and highly engaging—it’s a great choice for brands looking to innovate educational events and actively involve attendees. But how can you ensure your unconference participants feel engaged? Let’s take a look at what makes a successful unconference and how to organize one.

‍

What Are the Rules of Unconference?

‍

Unconference rules promote collaboration, peer learning, and dynamic discussions. Being participant-driven, its style and format often vary. Most organizers and participants abide by some common principles, including:  

• Anyone can attend. Unconferences welcome people of all backgrounds and expertise levels.
• Attendees decide on the agenda. Unlike conferences with a pre-planned agenda, Attendees propose session topics and vote on which to include.
• Participants can move between sessions freely. Most organizers follow the "Two Feet" rule, encouraging participants to switch sessions if the current one isn’t meeting their needs (e.g., it’s boring or irrelevant).
• Sessions are informal and discussion-based. Instead of formal presentations, an unconference focuses on interactive discussions.
• Be a safe space. A successful unconference lets participants share ideas without fear of judgment, so creating a respectful and inclusive environment is a must. 

Image Source: Shutterstock

‍

Unconference vs Conference

‍

Answers to “What is an unconference?” often point to the opposite of a conference. Both events offer opportunities for learning and networking but have different structures and engagement models. Here’s a closer look at how these events differ:

‍

‍

How to Organize an Unconference

‍

Organizing and running an unconference looks different from other corporate or educational events, although some aspects are similar.

‍

Choose Event Format

‍

An unconference can be held in person or through virtual or hybrid formats, each with its own merits to consider:

‍

‍

Tip: Want to involve future attendees? Hold pre-event surveys and polls to know their preferred unconference format.

‍

Select Discussion Style

‍

Just like the format, your discussion style should help you reach your goal. Unconferences have various ways to facilitate the event while encouraging diverse presentation styles. Consider:

• World Café: Participants rotate between small groups, discussing different topics at each table.
• Pecha Kucha: Presenters get 20 slides shown for 20 seconds each. It's fast, fun, and keeps everyone on their toes.
• Fishbowl: A small group discusses a topic while others listen. Listeners can join by replacing someone in the discussion.
• Ignite: Presenters deliver fast-paced talks with a strict time limit and automatic slide transitions.
• Birds of a Feather: Let participants flock together based on shared interests. 

Tip: Involve prospective attendees in the planning process. Try a mini unconference to brainstorm and try out how different formats work!

‍

Set Up Roles

‍

At unconference events, you'll need people to keep discussions on track. Recruit a diverse team skilled in managing groups, creating inclusive spaces, and tracking time. Assign them as facilitators or support staff based on your event format.

‍

Select a Venue

‍

Where do you plan to hold your event? You’ll want a space that aligns with its format and size while including factors like:

• Enough space for people to move around
• Audio-visual equipment 
• Strong Wi-Fi 
• Tech for virtual or hybrid events
• Accessibility features
• Comfortable seating

Choose a venue that makes people feel comfortable enough to share thoughts and get creative. Choose open spaces that can be reconfigured for different sessions.

‍

Promote Your Event

‍

What’s an unconference without marketing? To attract the right people for your event, spread the word and build excitement. Here’s how:

• Use social media marketing 
• Send out newsletters and email invitations
• Create an event website 
• Partner with thought leaders or influencers 
• Engage with relevant online communities and forums

Prepare Event Materials

‍

While the agenda comes together on the day, you’ll still need to prepare some materials like:

• Sign-up sheets for session proposals
• Whiteboards or flip charts 
• Name tags for participants
• Basic supplies like markers, sticky notes, and pens

Tip: Always double-check your tech setup (e.g., mics, speakers, projectors, live-streaming platforms, etc) before the event. 

‍

Image Source: Shutterstock

‍

Facilitate the Sessions

‍

One of the biggest challenges of running an unconference is facilitating the sessions effectively. Here are some strategies to help you navigate this:

• Set clear expectations right from the start to help participants understand what to expect and how they can contribute.
• Give everyone an equal opportunity to participate.
• Keep the language and tone of discussions inclusive and welcoming.
• Implement a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, or bullying.
• Set up accommodations like captioning or sign language interpreters for participants who may need them.
• Stay flexible and ready to pivot based on the group’s needs.
• Use whiteboards, flip charts, or digital tools to keep track of the ideas floating around.

The effectiveness of an unconference lies in the people who show up. Your job is to create a space where collaboration, creativity, and innovation can thrive. 

‍

Spark the Next Great Unconference With Concierge Club

‍

What is an unconference if not an excellent way to spark conversations and innovation? If you haven’t capitalized on this groundbreaking format yet, you’re missing out on real connections and fresh ideas that emerge when people truly engage. 

‍

Concierge Club helps unlock the power of unconferences with careful event planning and management. We create one-of-a-kind events and experiences that facilitate knowledge sharing and leave a lasting impression. Our comprehensive services cover every aspect of unconference planning and execution, including event design, staffing, venue sourcing, logistics, and more. 

‍

Let our award-winning team take care of the details so you can focus on conversations that matter. Contact us today to learn how we can help you organize a next-level unconference.