Use our free event run sheet template to plan your event day effectively and ensure all details are perfectly coordinated.
Every event manager knows that familiar blend of exhilaration and anxiety as event day creeps closer. Hours, weeks, even months of event planning culminate in a single, intense window of execution. What if a speaker is delayed? Did the catering arrive on schedule? Is the AV team ready for the grand reveal? These are the real-time stressors that can turn a perfectly designed event program into a logistical nightmare.
But what if you could eliminate that pit-of-your-stomach feeling? What if there was a single, dynamic document that kept every stakeholder, every event detail, and every minute accounted for? Enter the event run sheet. More than just a timeline, this is your event's operational command centre, the key to seamless event execution and greater peace of mind.
Quick note: if you’re eager to access your free event run sheet template, click below.
Why a run sheet is your ultimate event management tool
A well-organised event run sheet serves as a comprehensive blueprint for your event day, detailing each action, cue, and responsibility. It guarantees that all team members- whether event coordinators, tech crews, caterers, or volunteers- are aware of what needs to be done, when, and who is responsible.
This schedule is essential for smooth event management, making it a non-negotiable element for success.
- Ensures synchronicity: A detailed event agenda prevents miscommunications and missed cues. It keeps all stakeholders, internal staff, and external event suppliers on the same page, crucial for large-scale corporate events, conferences, or even smaller private functions.
- Reduces event day stress: by anticipating potential issues and assigning responsibilities within your event timeline, an event run sheet can become your contingency plan in action, allowing for efficient problem-solving.
- Boosts operational efficiency: documenting event tasks and timings helps to identify bottlenecks before they occur, optimises workflow, and ensures efficient use of precious time, from event bump-in to bump-out.
- Fosters accountability: with clear roles and timings embedded in your event run sheet, ambiguity is eliminated. Every team member understands their role and responsibilities.
- Centralised information hub: your event run sheet becomes the single source for all critical information. Need a vendor's contact number or a specific note on a speaker's requirements? It's all there, reducing frantic searching and improving time management.
Creating your event run sheet
Building an effective run sheet requires a thoughtful approach, focusing on clarity, precision, and comprehensive detail. Key elements to include for a truly effective event checklist include:
- Precise timings: start and end times for every event activity, from vendor arrival to networking, and guest departure.
- Clear activities/actions: A concise description of each task (e.g., "Speaker A mic check," "lunch service begins").
- Assigned responsibilities: designate who is accountable for each specific task (e.g., "AV lead," or "volunteer coordinator").
- Specific locations: where each activity will take place (e.g., "Main stage," "breakout room 3," "foyer registration").
- Key contact information: essential contacts for all relevant personnel and event vendors.
- Detailed notes/comments: space for specific instructions, reminders, or event contingency plans.
Download your free event run sheet template
Ready to transform your event operations and conquer event day with confidence?
Download iVvy's free event run sheet template and take the first step towards flawlessly executed events.