Understanding Timelines

Every workshop and exercise on Workshopr includes timing guidance to help you plan and run your sessions effectively. Here's how to interpret and use these timelines.

Duration Labels

Each activity shows an estimated total duration:

  • 5-15 minutes: Quick activities like icebreakers and energizers
  • 15-30 minutes: Short exercises for focused outcomes
  • 30-60 minutes: Medium activities with more depth
  • 1-2 hours: Substantial workshops with multiple phases
  • 2-4 hours: Full workshop sessions
  • Half day / Full day: Extended sessions for complex topics

Reading the Agenda

Workshop detail pages include a step-by-step agenda showing:

  • Phase name: What each section is called
  • Duration: Suggested time for that phase
  • Description: What happens during this phase
  • Running total: Cumulative time to that point

Adjusting Timelines

The suggested times are guidelines, not rules. Consider adjusting based on:

Factors That May Require More Time

  • Larger groups (more people = more sharing time)
  • Complex topics that need more discussion
  • Participants who are new to workshop formats
  • Remote sessions (technology transitions take longer)
  • High-stakes decisions that need thorough exploration

Factors That May Allow Less Time

  • Smaller groups
  • Experienced participants familiar with the format
  • Simpler topics
  • Follow-up sessions where context is already established

Time Management Tips

  1. Build in buffer: Add 10-15% extra time for transitions and questions
  2. Use a visible timer: Keep time visible so everyone stays on track
  3. Give warnings: Announce "5 minutes left" and "1 minute left"
  4. Protect the important phases: If running short, cut from less critical activities
  5. Know your "must-haves": Identify which phases are essential

When You're Running Short

If you're running out of time, consider:

  • Shortening discussion/sharing rounds
  • Reducing the number of iterations
  • Skipping optional warm-up activities
  • Combining related phases
  • Scheduling a follow-up session for remaining items

Need help planning?

Our AI assistant can help you adapt workshop timelines for your specific situation.