 identify concrete aspects to prepa1·e for, sucl1 as looki11g U(J facls or figures in advance. Useful device for heading each item (e. g., "For information. ~ ''For discussion," or "For decision.. ) can guide members as to where thex are trying to get to. (c) Sequencing the items properly. The following are some guidelines that can be followed. Items that need urgent decision have to come before those that can wait till next time. Since it takes awhile for the group to get its mind in gear. the first item shou Jd be that which is most accessible to the mind (e,g., items tlrnt are. interesting or cnsy to handle). An item that needs mental energy, bright ideas, and clear heads should be placed high up oo the list to coincide with the lively, creative atmosphere of the meeting. It is a good idea to find a unifying item witl, wh. ich to end the meeting-one which will unite the meeti. ng in a common front rnther than divide the group members one from anothel'. 2. Circulating in adv:mce, background or p1:oposal p A. pers together. vith the minutes of the previous meeting. These papers prepare members for a productive discussion when they attend Lbe meeting. 3. Ensw·ingattendan ceofth. osewhos hall make vital contributions for effective decision-mt1lcing during tl1e meeting. This is accomplished through adequate communication with and follow-up of these people. 4. Enstuing adequate preparations for tl1e physical facilities such that they are conducive to ancl supportive of a productive discussion. c. EJJectiue handling of committee meeting pr·ocess. ln order to make sure that the meeting nchieves valuable objectives, the chairman's role as facilitator itwolves assisting the group toward the best conclusion or decision in the most efficient manner possible: to interpret and clarify; to move the discussion forward; and Lo bring it to cl resolutfoo that everyone underslamls and accepts as bei 11g the will of the meeting. Tl1ere are two tasks necessary for the facilitator to handle effectively the committee meeting pr Qcess. These are: (1) dealing with the topic or agenda; and (2) dealing with members (Cox and others 1977, pp. 266-269 ?. 1. Dealing with the topic. The following skills are necessary in order to keep the meetii1g pointed towards its objective/s: (a) Utilizing an "Order of Busines s" so that members are clear about the sequence of topics or items to be discussc cl during the meeting. The following guide maybe used: 123 