Here are nine steps towards better meetings.
Identify the objective(s) of the meeting.
Identify the participants you need, and the chairman.
Based on (1) and (2) build the agenda.
Set a time constraint on each agenda item and on the meeting as a whole.
Publish the objective(s), agenda, time constraints and indicate to each participant what preparation is required.
Hold the meeting.
The chairman drives the meeting towards the objective(s).
Prepare an action list arising out of the meeting.
Leave when the objective(s) has/have been met and the action list completed.