Question: Is it possible to facilitate a focus group online effectively? There are many platforms and tools to ensure that an online focus group would be as rich and effective as one using a face-to-face mode. It could follow a similar overall structure but use facilitation techniques that are more appropriate for an online medium, such as indicated below in Figure 4 Tips for effective online focus groups Figure 4: Tips for effective online focus groups 1 Value your online focus group. 2 Treat it less like a 'second-best' and more like a different format with its own strengths. Make tech an asset, not a barrier. 4 5 Choose a platform you are confident with, 6 7 Gender Strategy Toolkit 2026 to suit your platform. 3 that is reliable and easy to use. Breakout room capability is helpful for larger groups. Design facilitation techniques Build connection quickly so participants don't 'turn-off' and engagement stays high throughout. Ask everyone to join 10 minutes early to check their technology is working. Have a tech co-host so the facilitator can focus on content. Plan for connectivity dropouts (phone dial-in backup, re-entry instructions). 35