A familiar device may be the solution to long, unfocused, and unproductive meetings.
The new strategy for running a productive meeting, discussed by Jake Knapp, a design partner at Google Ventures, in a recent Businessweek article, is also surprisingly simple and inexpensive.
It relies on a $25 plastic device with a battery called the Time Timer.
The Timer Timer is essentially a large, old-school oven timer designed for classrooms. Its large black numbers mark 5 minute increments and a red disc set inside the numbers displays the time remaining.
The way it works is simple:
1. Bring the timer to the meeting.
2. Set it in a visible spot where everyone can see it.
3. Set the length of time for the timer to run.
4. Watch the remaining time immediately begin disappearing.
5. Create instant urgency.
When everyone knows the time limitation, meetings are significantly more focused and efficient. It also balances participation–it encourages quiet types to say something before the timer hits zero and helps loud types recognize how much time they are taking up.
Basically, the idea is that people don’t lose track of time when its right in front of them.
The Time Timer proves to be more effective than a timer app on a screen. It’s physical presence makes time tangible. It’s easy to see, impossible to ignore, and can’t be dismissed with the swipe of a finger.
It can also be used to time individual topics within a meeting or create additional efficiency by confining mundane independent tasks such as emailing and eating lunch.
That being said, it is important to be selective with when and where it is used. In situations where employees are already feeling the pressure, the timer may add additional stress. Be careful not to turn it into something employees dread.
It’s worth trying the Timer Timer in a business meeting. It may initially elicit laughter, but it will soon become a respected force in the room.
What do you have to lose? Certainly not time.
Nice article. Especially in business life, time is the most important. In the meeting, if you could not manage your time, your listeners would lose their intention to your presentation.