Hocmöten

Hocmöten is a term used to describe ad hoc meetings convened to address a specific, often urgent issue. The phrase draws from the Latin ad hoc, meaning “for this purpose,” and is used in Swedish and some European organizational contexts to refer to time-limited gatherings formed to decide a particular matter. Unlike standing committees or regularly scheduled boards, hocmöten are created as needed and typically disband after the issue is resolved.

Typical characteristics include a narrowly defined objective, a small and relevant set of attendees, a strict time frame, and a focus on decision-making or problem-solving rather than routine updates. Agendas are usually prepared quickly and may be sparse, with emphasis on what needs to be decided rather than broad discussion. Minutes are recommended, and action items should be clearly assigned.

In practice, the process commonly involves identifying the issue, promptly issuing invitations, designating a chair or facilitator, reviewing concise materials if available, conducting a time-boxed meeting, and recording decisions with follow-up actions. The objective is to reach timely, well-documented conclusions that can be implemented swiftly.

Benefits of hocmöten include speed, relevance, and flexibility in handling time-sensitive matters. Potential drawbacks are reduced transparency, uneven representation, and the risk of scope creep if the meeting is not tightly scoped and well documented.

Best practices emphasize defining a clear objective, limiting attendees to those with essential input or authority, enforcing a fixed duration, appointing a capable facilitator, and producing brief minutes that capture decisions and responsibilities. See also ad hoc committee, crisis management, and stand-up meeting.