Put together a committee of qualified specialists and colleagues to organize the symposium. Develop the theme and topics for the symposium. The symposium may be structured around one main theme that is divided into a number of related topics.
Organize a timetable and schedule for the symposium. The schedule for speakers and talks is obviously dependent on the length and size of the symposium. A large symposium may have concurrent talks that take place in adjoining conference rooms. A smaller symposium may feature only one talk at a time. Schedule the symposium papers in 1-hour segments. The 1-hour segment may feature one paper or three shorter papers that offer different perspectives on the same topic. Leave the last 10 to 15 minutes open for questions and answers.
Send out a call for papers for the symposium. The call for papers may be advertised in academic and professional journals, on your organization or academic department's Web site, and on fliers posted on university or professional bulletin boards. Clarify the theme and topics for the symposium. Provide specific details about the required length of the papers, details about how to submit the papers and the due date, and the date and location of the symposium.
Select the papers that are well written and that best address the theme and topics of the symposium. Arrange the papers according to the schedule and timetable of the symposium. If 1 hour features three papers on a relate topic, consider having a moderator to host the talk and introduce the individual presenters.
Print a symposium schedule with the titles, time, room location and name of the presenter for each talk. Print enough copies for each of the expected symposium participants.