Jour Fixe

The French term Jour Fixe can literally be translated as “fixed day” and denotes an appointment that recurs at regular intervals. Such regular appointments are considered to be particularly efficient compared to traditional meetings. Jour fixes are particularly widespread in project management for group-internal coordination. Depending on the project, the participants are often spread across different cities or even countries, so that internal communication is sometimes difficult. The short meeting is therefore used, for example, to discuss the current project status, evaluate successes and failures and determine the next steps. All those involved are brought up to the same level of knowledge. Such meetings also play an important role in everyday office life. In the office, poor communication is one of the most common causes of misunderstandings and problems. A jour fixe, for example, supports the exchange of cross-departmental objectives and can promote communication between employees and superiors. However, a jour fixe can only advance the project and communication if it is organized efficiently. Above all, the aspect of time management plays a decisive role.

Tips for conducting a jour fixe In addition to the few rules that promote continuous exchange, organizations should clarify separate issues and rules in advance:

Are all (and especially new) participants aware of the aim of the exchange?
Do all participants know what information they need to prepare for the meeting?
How long does the meeting last and who ensures that the timebox is observed? Once all the information has been exchanged, the meeting can of course end before the agreed duration. If more time is needed, e.g. because creative ideas need to be developed, a separate meeting should be arranged.
Who moderates the meeting and is there a minute-taker?
Will the results be made available to the participants in writing afterwards?
How are discussed tasks followed up?
Is the use of mobile phones and other aids permitted during the meeting?

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