Seminars and trainings

Are you looking for a tailor-made, individual method training or seminar to learn interactive methods for interactive workshops, large groups or conferences? Our trainers are experienced professionals from the field and are happy to pass on their knowledge to you.

What we offer

Tailor-made training in interactive methods for large group workshops and seminars
Large-group training: training in the use of large-group methods
small interaction-triggering methods for every seminar/workshop
Methods for strategy development, action planning, feedback and structured discussions

What you will learn:

Our trainings are always individually suited to your needs, because we train “tailor-made and precisely fitting“, adjusted to your needs, requirements and concrete objectives.
Depending on your objectives, we will teach you the “classic” large-group formats or provide you with an individual “toolbox” – or even both. As mentioned above, this depends entirely on which specific workshops/events you want to plan and hold.
In any case, you will receive a lot of proven practical knowledge on the planning, implementation and moderation of modern, interactive methods. For workshops, large groups, interactive conferences of all conceivable sizes.

Method Selection

The “Classic” Large Group Formats:

World Café
Open Space
Barcamp
Future Conference
Real Time Strategic Change
Fishbowl
Storytelling
Appreciative Enquiry
Liberating Structures
Circle Work

Individual formats for any purpose and objective

Optionally, you will also receive a well-stocked method toolkit, from which you can compile activating and interactive formats for any initial situation and objective yourself. For example:

Activating workshop scenarios
Involving all participants
Individual formats
for meetings, workshops, interactive conferences

With our methodological knowledge you can:

Develop strategies with any and all conceivable group constellations and sizes
Make plans for action
Skillfully resolve polarities and differences and transfer them to common ground and a feasible action plan
Generate insights and knowledge
Generate Feedback
and Work with It in a Targeted and Constructive Manner
Gather opinions quickly and efficiently
Collect different ideas and perspectives, bring them together and achieve a joint result – regardless of group size or topic
Skillfully Apply Interaction-Triggering Methods That Don’t Take Much Time – But Are Highly Effective
Make presentations more interactive
… and many other application scenarios with the “gold nuggets” from our tried-and-tested methodologies kit

Possible training contents

Select From

the topics you would like to learn about in greater depth – we always provide training specifically “tailored” to your requirements and objectives and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.

A selection of possible modules

Moderation of Large Group Processes and Interactive Workshops

Workshop Methods and Formats for Large, Small, and Medium Group Sizes
A variety of formats for conferences, trade fairs, information events
Expanding your toolbox
Finding the right “mix of methods”
Learning large and small formats “in-depth” and “hands-on” and how to apply them

Professional preparation and implementation

Dramaturgy and Methods for Interactive, Activating Workshops
for small and medium group sizes
and also for (large) group processes such as Open Space, World Café, Appreciative Inquiry, Real Time Strategic Change, Future Conference
Methodical and logistic preparation

Finding the Right Methods and Formats

to achieve the goals set
in the time available
under the existing framework conditions

Appropriate mix of methodologies and activating arrangements

Make plans of action
Develop Strategies
Use feedback constructively
Create useful networks among the participants
Conduct dialogs on equal terms

Get results

Achieve actionable results within a short time
in large and small formats, even within a short period

Create energy for implementation

Coordinate, make decisions, create commitment, “hand over” responsibility for content in a targeted manner

Meaningful embedding

of interactive formats in conference settings
and/or in on-going processes in organizations / companies

Concrete planning for facilitation formats:

From clarification of the assignment to presentation of the results and planning follow-up formats
Structuring, presentation and visualization in an interactive workshop

Tips and tricks

Planning tools, templates, best practices, workshop toolbox

Developing suitable, meaningful questions

for the respective formats
Systemically develop frameworks, topics and specific issues for large groups

Role clarification

What is the task of the facilitation and planning team, and what is not? How can responsibility be distributed sensibly at this early stage between several stakeholders?

Advance communication

Announcement of the event through suitable media (culturally appropriate sensitization and attunement) and involvement of the participants in the run-up to the event.

Event Management

Technology, premises, organization

Evaluation and follow-up

Proven end-of-event and follow-up formats

Possible training scenarios

How Does Such a Method Training Unfold?

As already described – our training courses are always “tailor-made” and individually tailored to your needs. However, here are two examples of processes for a first overview:

Example 1: Focus on Classic Methods

We train the “classic methods” (Open Space, World Café, Future Search Conference, Appreciative Inquiry, etc.) in a mix of “frontal input”, trying out, and reflecting:

Overview training approach — Beispielhafter Trainings-Ansatz

Example 2: focus on developing your own toolbox

If the main goal is to develop our own “toolbox” in order to create individual workshop formats yourselves, we often proceed in slightly steps:

Understanding the basic mechanics of large groups
- Which basic steps are underlying the majority of formats?
- How do they build on each other?
Overview of different methods for each step
- Which methods are suitable for each “basic step”?
Positioning each method in an application matrix
- Build your own methodologies toolkit
Deciphering the “classic” formats: how do the well-known formats fit in with the respective basic steps?
- How can these be sensibly varied according to the objective?
Case studies
- Showing scenarios from our consulting practice
- Discussion Transfer
“Case Clinic”
- Developing your own large group dramaturgy with the acquired method toolkit
- against the backdrop of upcoming events
Optional: “on the job” coaching for workshop planning, preparation, implementation

Training approach

Interactive Training Methods

We not only teach interactive methods, but we also use them directly in our training sessions. In this way, you learn from us on two levels:

Theory (input)
and “hands-on” application

“Practice what you preach”

We use the methodologies we teach in our training of you:

Alternation of concise input and transfer/”do-it-yourself” phases

Evaluation and transfer:

Why do the methods work so well
In-depth explanation of the psychological and group dynamic foundations, so that you understand in depth what you are actually applying – and why the methods work so well
Which are possible applications and scenarios
Useful variations and modifications
(always related to the goals and the respective context of application)
QA – rounds – so that all relevant questions will be covered.

Work on “real world” case studies

We will show you real case studies from our consulting and associated effective methodologies. In this way, you will quickly develop a feeling for which methodologies are suitable for which occasion.

It is not uncommon for our participants to bring case studies from their own job contexts. This is very welcome, because it ensures an ideal transfer to your own working environment.

This is why you should participate

Tailored Training Content
We always adapt our training to the exact needs of the participants. Are you a beginner, would you like to refresh your existing knowledge or go deeper in certain areas of your facilitation practice? We have the right training concept for every scenario.
Modern, up-to-date method knowledge
taught by experienced trainers.
With us, you not only learn the “original formats”, but also practical “variations” of the original methods.
This way, you are prepared for large group practice and can develop your own formats from existing building blocks – suitable for every initial situation and objective!
We know what we’re talking about
Because we are experienced practical users and are constantly developing our repertoire of methods.
Here you can find some of our references from our large group work.
Modern and interactive knowledge transfer
Activating, interactive and discursive training formats
Top references and satisfaction
We would be happy to provide you with a tailored offer with verifiable references.

Advantage of the “in-house training” approach: Tailor-made to your needs!

We always adapt the content of our in-house training courses to your individual requirements.

In the past we trained, among others:

Consulting company (“train the trainer”)
Internal consultants and trainers from corporations and SMEs
Internal strategy departments
HR developers
Change agents
Managers with planning and facilitation responsibilities
Pedagogical staff
Teams of event agencies who want to expand their methodological toolbox
Trade fair organizers and agencies
and many other teams.

Our Approach

To ensure that you receive the best possible quality for your training or seminar, we attach great importance to a thorough clarification of the job and context:

What exactly do you need?
additional assessment of the existing challenges among participants via telephone, videoconverence or survey form
Creation of an individual training approach: tailored to your needs. Guarantee: You will not learn anything that you already know!
Alignment and finalization of the training design
Implementation
Structured evaluation of benefits and success

Money back guarantee

If you are not satisfied, you get your money back. Without “ifs and buts”. Period.

Your benefits

You will learn:

know current, activating and interactive methods for conferences, training sessions and seminars and can apply them themselves after the seminar (“application competence”)
combine elements of individual methods into new, individual formats – depending on the target group and needs (“modular system”)
through the application of interactive methods in the seminar setting, interactive methods are taught and deepened (“learning on two levels”)

You will get:

Practitioners as Trainers
Our trainers apply these methods virtually “daily” in their professions as consultants. So we are all seasoned practitioners and are happy to share our knowledge.
Always “fresh” and current methods
We are aware of current method trends and know from practice which methodological variations achieve which effects.
Best Seminar Quality
Activating and interactive training, didactically well-thought-out, proven many times over and constantly refined.
Materials with hands-on practical tips
So that you can easily apply the methods yourself afterwards.

Schedule a free initial consultation here!

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about our Method Training

When will the next Large Group Method Training be offered?

Whenever you want. We offer the initio Method Training flexibly in terms of time, anywhere in Germany. Training at short notice is also possible!

Are there open method training sessions for individual participants?

Our training courses are aimed at existing, permanent groups from companies, organizations, associations, clubs, public authorities… We do not offer any open seminars for individual participants.

For which objectives are the large group methods suitable?

Developing strategies and action plans, making decisions, weighing up risks, generating ideas, developing innovations – the whole range. We design our training courses precisely to your needs!

How much does the Large Group Method Training cost?

You pay us according to the time spent, not according to the number of participants. This pays off even with a small group ! Here you will get your non-binding offer, specially tailored to your group and your objectives.

For which group sizes are the large group methods suitable?

For really any group size: From small groups (3-4 people) to 1000 people, we have a fully packed suitcase of methods that we would be happy to teach you.

Who are the trainers?

Our trainers come from practice – and work primarily as passionate and experienced practitioners of the methods that we use ourselves in our consulting practice. Get first-hand application tips and tricks from experienced practitioners!

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Kalkulation der anfallenden Kosten

Hier bekommen Sie alle Informationen, die Sie brauchen:

Vereinbaren Sie hier ein kostenfreies Erstgespräch!

Schedule a free initial consultation here!

Further Articles on Interactive Methods

Collection of workshop methods Overview of facilitation methods

Let’s Talk!

We have more than 21 years of experience as consultants in strategy processes and would be happy to advise you!

Book your free initial consultation. We will get in touch with you.

ENTHUSIASTIC CUSTOMER REACTIONS AND OPINIONS:

Thank you very much for the highly professional and motivating implementation of the Open Space. The feedback from the participants was consistently positive.

Thank you again for the great workshop – we have already started implementing the first suggestions and are having a lot of fun doing so.

The training was enjoyable and, above all, it advanced us, inspired us, and was fun. Thank you very much for that!

That was really good. You understand your craft!

Thank you for the great event. We took away a lot of impulses and look forward to reaping the benefits.

We have received very positive feedback about your training. Thank you very much for that!

That was a really great workshop, thank you very much!

Thank you once again for this all-around successful workshop day! We couldn’t have managed it like this without your support. The effort was worth it!

Thank you again for the great workshop – we are very happy with the outcome!

The day was extremely productive. I am very motivated to continue working with the results.

I’m always thrilled to work with professionals – Thank you very much for the goal-oriented moderation!

A big thank you for moderating the workshop. As a team, we emerged from the day with a good team spirit and a clearer picture regarding the way forward. The workshop was very worthwhile!

4-day workshop and yet: playful, creative, inspiring and structured with good methodology. Highly recommended.

Objective, constructive, optimistic – You have put us on course. Thank you to initio – I will definitely recommend you!

The DAV sincerely thanks initio for their support on this sometimes challenging journey. A mission statement of this quality would not have been possible without initio, and above all, we would not have conducted the discussion so openly. We are grateful for this impetus.

Once again, my sincere thanks for the excellent collaboration, organization, and the great results of the workshops!

We achieved all our goals and it was exactly what I had envisioned. Thank you very much!

It’s fun to work with you!

That was a very good method. We couldn’t have done it without you!

The support in the preparation and execution of our retreat was very professional and helped us greatly. We were very satisfied with the two intensive days

Everyone was very satisfied with your moderation. The agreements made together work wonders. The team workshop did us a lot of good!

It’s truly impressive how you perceive group dynamics and spontaneously guide them in a targeted manner for further proceedings during the event. We all, and I personally, really liked that.

The change management training was very good! You truly understand the subject matter in depth – it shows.

You moderated our two-day strategy workshop very professionally. The challenge was significant, and the result is very good. Thank you very much for that!

The minister’s cabinet and the department are pleased with the excellent cooperation, which is characterized by trust, reliability, and great empathy!

You were a real asset to our team development. Thank you very much for that!

I thoroughly enjoyed working with you both personally and professionally, and it was a great pleasure to conduct this workshop together with you!

Thank you for the valuable insights into your practical work and the many tips and moderation tricks that provided a lively glimpse into the implementation of methods.

The interactive conference design was really helpful in implementing our WE strategy. Through the high employee participation, we received important impulses for further implementation. The preparation was precise, and the on-site collaboration was professional and very pleasant. Thank you!

Your vigilant and well-founded moderation and inspiration have helped us tremendously. The team was also thrilled!

I have received only positive feedback about your training. The content was very relevant to practice and everyone also found the structure of the seminar very good!

I am very satisfied with the consultation. The workshop has brought us a great step forward. Thank you for that!

Thank you for the great training. You have stimulated many thought processes in me!

Her expertise received 9.5 out of 10 possible points, her teaching 8.8 and the learning atmosphere 9.7 points. Top!

Thank you once again for the truly excellent consultation! This quality is not often encountered.

Thank you very much for your great support. Thanks to your help, we have truly taken a big step forward.

We are all thrilled with your seminar. Thank you very much! I have already implemented the first impulses and I’m already noticing initial successes. I’m looking forward to trying more…

A very helpful and good workshop! The results also helped us greatly during the restructuring phase.

This was a very efficient process that provided us with valuable insights and results. I am looking forward to the further process.

Our leadership conference greatly benefited from your intensive methodical consultation and professional moderation. The results exceeded our expectations!

The Open Space format was a powerful and thoroughly successful kick-off for our change process. The ministry was also thrilled!

The team development was truly excellent preparation for our strategy retreat.

We have received exclusively positive feedback on the conference. We can work very well with the results. Thank you very much for your commitment!

initio operates in the sensitive, complex, and dynamic field of strategic consulting not only efficiently but with foresight, sustainability, and passion. The impulses from our collaboration continue to influence our daily business at Sony Music to this day.

You prepared our workshop intensively and precisely. Both the method and moderation fit very well with our objectives. We were able to continue working very successfully with the results. Thank you very much!

I received particularly positive feedback regarding your moderation. Several workshop-experienced participants reported that they came with rather low expectations and left extremely positively surprised.

I have rarely experienced processes where so much has been achieved.

I will adopt some of your methods for my own workshops.

Thank you very much for this team development process. I’m glad we booked you.

You have played a very significant role in the success of our event, because without your support, it would have been much more difficult for us to ‘sell’ your innovative approach. Thank you for that!

The seminar was very helpful and will accompany me for weeks and months to come.

Very good! 1.6 as feedback score from workshop participants – I hope we continue the constructive and very pleasant collaboration!

Your sharp analytical skills were very impressive and helpful.

I learned a great deal in your seminar. It was exactly the right mix of theory, inspiration, and practical application. Therefore, I give it 9 out of 10 points!

Thank you for these really good, efficient days! The workshop was received positively throughout.
Thank you very much for your support!

The mission statement process was straightforward and creative. A very good result all around!

4 days workshop and yet: playful, creative, inspiring and structured with good methodology. Absolutely recommended.

By your professional steering of the process, you have played a significant part in the success of the project. Thank you very much!

Thank you very much for the really helpful seminar!

A model of this quality would not have been possible without your help. The result, however, is thoroughly gratifying and is already finding its way into our daily work.

The well-prepared and professionally accompanied team event gave us valuable suggestions and insights. Together we are now implementing this in further concrete steps. Thank you very much!

Thank you for the valuable insights into your practical work and the many tips and facilitation tricks that gave a lively insight into method implementation.

Rarely received such a well-structured seminar with excellent content.

It was impressive to see how much came out of our workshop. That was outstanding!

We are more than satisfied with the result. Thanks again for doing an excellent job! We hope to continue working with you!

The method training was very helpful. We can highly recommend initio Consulting for future seminars.

After the workshops with initio, we can clearly see how we can develop and proceed further and which tasks have high priority now. Thank you very much for your support!

The strategy workshop was extremely productive. You have always kept the group focused on the essential issues. We fully recommend your facilitation!

Kathleen Ernst

NP Immobilien Gruppe

Prof. Norbert Jardin

Ruhrverband

Dr. Siegfried Gelbhaar

Deutscher Bundestag

Sven Becker

Trianel GmbH

Dr. Vivien Lutz

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

Dominik Krämer

Deutscher Anwaltsverein

Hans-Jürgen Oster

Stadt Köln – Amt für Integration und Vielfalt

Brigitta Kelb

Bistum Essen

Anne Demmering

ILB Investitionsbank Brandenburg

Jörg Graichen

Brose Fahrzeugteile

Christiane Winter

Senatsverwaltung Berlin

Claudia Krohs

Investitionsbank Brandenburg

Detlef-Mutterer

Toys R Us Zentraleuropa & Polen

S. Folke

BASF

Successful companies benefit from our consulting:

Alle Referenzen →: Training / Seminar for Workshops, Large Group Methods Interactive Conferences