A focus group gathers information on a topic of interest by bringing people together for a facilitated discussion. Key things to remember when planning a focus group include: 

• The ideal focus group size is 6–10 participants. 
• The moderator facilitates the conversation, keeping it within the designated 60–90 minutes. 
• The focus group is guided by a focus group protocol, which begins with an opening script and includes open-ended questions. 
• The time and location of the focus group should be convenient for participants. 
• The room location should be quiet, be private, and allow for chairs to be arranged in a circle for discussion. 

This infographic from the Evaluation and Sustainability Training and Technical Assistance (ES TTA) team at RTI International and the Center for Justice Innovation (formerly the Center for Court Innovation) highlights important logistical considerations when hosting a focus group. It also provides an example focus group protocol and offers tips for successful facilitation. 

View the infographic