It takes time to plan and facilitate an online workshop that is efficient and considers the issues that might arise when working remotely. Virtual facilitators (the person who ensures that the workshop is run smoothly and actively engages the participants) are required to adapt quickly on the in the moment.

A important link successful online meeting or workshop requires a balance between information sharing discussion, group discussions and other engagement activities. It is also necessary to address the logistical concerns such as inadequate technology, time management, and note-taking. Virtual facilitators are usually responsible for these duties which can be stressful and challenging particularly if the sessions are not well-run.

Virtual facilitation is becoming increasingly widespread as remote groups and organizations have to cope with the increasing demand for flexible meetings. It’s a skill best learned through experience and it’s not different from facilitation in person, but with the added issue of keeping participants from remote locations interested and engaged throughout the meeting.

Numerous studies have highlighted the need to tailor VF to each site’s particular organizational structure and culture. This was especially emphasized by Fox et al., who gave facilitators guidelines for a certain number of virtual facilitation sessions per center. Other studies, like those by Malone and. al. and Hartmann, included a component of training for facilitators within the organization, which focused on building competences, skills and knowledge that is specifically in the field of virtual facilitation.