John, what great points!

Yes, I fully agree: if a meeting requires input and discussion (and most of them should), get everyone the information they need in order to make the most productive contribution - and expect everyone to honor each other's time and commitments by coming prepared to engage well.

Regarding the ongoing quest to "do meetings better" - I look at it a bit like parenting. While we've been having and raising children forever, each generation must learn how to do it well. Mix in changing context (eg: touch screens) and we'll never fully master the subject. Leadership and management skills are very similar - Only a very small minority of frontline and middle level managers who are given the skills they need to be effective.

Addressing that need is my passion - thank goodness for Lead Change Group and all the other folks out there like you who are helping people get the tools they need to be effective!