This manual describes the fact-finding conference and provides guidelines for determining when to use one, for planning one, and for conducting one. Defined first are various types of conferences, including the information-giving conference, the problem-solving or decision-making conference, the information-exchange conference, and the fact-finding conference. The role of fact-finding conferences in a national adult education project is examined. Following a discussion of various features of the fact-finding conference, guidelines are set forth for implementing the various phases of it, including initial planning; program development; final preparation; conducting the conference; and reporting, appraisal, and followup. A sample agenda and sample report-form questions are provided. Also analyzed is the role of the conference consultant. (MN)