Meettheorie

Meettheorie is a theoretical framework used to study meetings as social processes within organizations. It analyzes how meeting design, participant roles, and communication patterns shape outcomes such as decisions, commitments, and information diffusion.

Origins of meettheorie lie in the intersections of organizational behavior, group dynamics, and communication studies. It synthesizes classic theories of decision making with contemporary research on meeting culture, aiming to systematize how different meeting practices influence effectiveness and equity.

Key concepts in meettheorie include structure, such as agenda design, duration, and timeboxing; roles, including facilitator, timekeeper, and secretary; and participation norms, like inclusive practices, turn-taking, and psychological safety. The theory distinguishes input factors (goals, information quality) from process factors (interaction quality) and outcome factors (decisions, follow-through). Artifacts such as minutes and action lists are considered part of the ongoing record of a meeting’s impact.

Methodologically, researchers employ case studies, ethnography, surveys, and social network analysis to assess how meeting configurations affect engagement, idea generation, and decision quality. Applications span corporate governance, project management, municipal councils, and non-profit boards, with guidance emphasizing clear agendas, explicit decision rules, time management, and structured minute-taking.

Criticism of meettheorie includes concerns that it may overemphasize efficiency at the expense of substantive dialogue and that cultural differences can limit universal applicability. Measurements of success are often context-dependent, requiring careful interpretation across organizations.

See also: Group dynamics, Meeting science, Organizational behavior, Decision theory.