Develop a scoring scale of 1 to 5, with 5 the highest. This will make it quick and easy for participants to record their evaluations..
Develop a list of conference categories to be scored. Include presenters, exhibitors, vendors, keynote speakers and overall organization.
Within each category, name three to five evaluative criteria to be scored using the scoring scale. For example, in “presentations” write: “Rate the overall relevance of the presenter’s topic to the conference’s theme.” As a second criterion, write, “Rate the overall relevance of the presenter’s topic to my current interests and/or position.” Finally include, “Rate the presenter’s overall presentation.” Use something similar for exhibitors, vendors and any other contributors to the conference such as keynote speakers.
Include at least one category that rates the conference’s overall organization. Consider the structure and tone of the conference, technologies used to facilitate presentations, overall adherence and relevance to the conference’s theme, ease of use and usefulness in facilitating networking opportunities. These are important attributes to consider in development of future conferences.
Develop a separate evaluation for presentations, since these are at the heart of the conference. Use a similar rating scale of 1 to 5, and include more specific criteria such as, “The extent to which presenter engaged audience participation,” and “Rate the presenter’s level of expertise with the subject.” Also consider handouts, visual aids, technology used and diversity of presentation ideas. You’ll need to know who to invite back for future conferences and what topics to include that will generate increased registration.
Include a separate area for general comments from participants. Encourage ideas for future conferences, suggestions for change and what was liked the most about the conference.