Journal of Business and Psychology, 24 (1), 2009
Desmond J. Leach, Steven G. Rogelberg, Peter B. Warr and Jennifer L. Burnfield
Published online: 22 February 2009
Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2009
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this investigation was to test hypotheses about meeting design characteristics (punctuality,
chairperson, etc.) in relation to attendees’ perceptions of meeting effectiveness.
Design/Methodology/Approach Two studies were conducted:
Study 1 investigated meetings attended in a typical week (N = 958), whereas Study 2 examined the last
meeting attended on a particular day (N = 292).
Findings A number of design characteristics (in particular agenda use and quality of facilities) were found to be important in predicting perceived effectiveness. Attendee involvement served as a key mediator variable in the observed relationships. Neither meeting type nor size was found to affect the relationships of the design characteristics and involvement with effectiveness. Meeting size, however, was negatively related to attendee involvement.
Implications The findings help us to better understand relationships between design characteristics and attendees’ perceptions of meeting effectiveness. Meeting organizers can use the findings to guide administration of meetings, with potential to enhance the quality of meetings.
Originality/Value Meetings are a common organizational activity but are rarely the focus of empirical research. The use of two complementary studies, to our knowledge, provides a unique account of the contribution of design characteristics to perceptions of meeting effectiveness.
Keywords Meeting effectiveness, Design characteristics, Attendee involvement
