What is a Facilitator?  A facilitator is someone who makes progress easier—a trained expert in process and group dynamics using proven techniques to achieve greater results from your team.  A facilitator will carefully design the session and then conduct it while managing the group process to to reach desired outcomes.

A facilitator is one who helps to bring an outcome (as learning, productivity, or communication) by providing indirect or unobtrusive assistance, guidance, or supervision. Source:  International Association of Facilitators A facilitated session is a highly structured meeting in which the meeting leader (the facilitator) guides the participants through a series of pre-defined steps to arrive at a result that is created, understood and accepted by all participants. Source:  Leadership Strategies, Inc.

Partner Conduct needs analysis with client Set the overall objectives for the session Identify and agree on the desired outcome	Peacekeeper Create a safe and secure environment for full participation Manage any group conflict
Planner Pre-select the appropriate group process and framework to achieve the objectives Plan the session for effective use of space and time	Motivator Induce the resourcefulness, wisdom, and creativity of the group Engage the group and continue its momentum
Taskmaster Keep the group on task Manage time for each task Keep the group working toward the purpose	Guide Guide the group discussion through each phase of the session to align ideas for collaborative decision making Proactively listen and observe, but only provide neutral feedback