The team must be well organised. Start by clearly defining each person's responsibilities.
It is usually helpful to write a business plan. Include the aims, objectives and expected outcomes of your event. You can then use this as a communication plan and marketing tool.

Get professional advice about the business side of the event, especially if you are new to this role.

Festivals and events are usually operated and supported by unpaid personnel. (See Case Studies Section 7)

If you anticipate that the festival or event will become an ongoing event, you may consider operating in the following ways:

• For non-profit making events, the organising team can become a legal entity by forming an incorporated association.
• You may decide to join forces and become 'constituted' as part of another group in your area, such as Associated Voluntary Services. (For example, in Pembrokeshire, this would be PAVS, www.pavs.org.uk Tel: 01437 769442)

The benefits on this include funding opportunities, less meeting time and shared responsibility.

• You may also consider more formal types of business designations, such as Sole Trader, Partnership, Unlimited Company, Limited Company or Cooperative

Get professional advice from your Local Authority business advisors or Business Connect.

More details: www.companieshouse.gov.uk

Charitable status, contact the Charities Commission www.charity-commission.gov.uk

Key Points:

• Keep the organisational structure simple and easy to manage
• Get legal and professional advice
• Be aware of legal liabilities

See Also:

1.2 Committee Formation
2.1 Establish who does what
Section 2 Identification/Investigation
Section 3 Management Plan
Section 6 Implementing Event - Operational Plan
Section 7 Case Studies