Question

When completing a group project, what four steps should be taken to ensure an effective first group meeting?

Answer 1

introduce themselves with what they bring to the project, their interests, qualifications, and even preferences in projects.determine a convener and/or clerk who will keep participants on task
This is determined by your first group process, and should consider who would like to volunteer, experience and expertise with the task, and even a desire to learn about group tasksDetermine the strategy of how often to meet in person or through technology, 
where the group will meet, communicating including email and (cell) phone information, and how to distribute minutes and updatesSummarize objectives: 
Strategy: each member independently writes down one or two main objectives of the project, then the group compares these, extracts key words and phrases, then prioritizes results. If agreement cannot be reached, refer the matter to the teacher.
Group members should realize that this a procedural situation, and not a matter for controversy or heated argument.Determine process to achieve the objectives
What is the timeline? What are the deliverables and when are they needed?
Do you need sub-groups? project planning tools (Gantt, Critical Path, PERT)?
What applications do you need (word processing, spread sheets, cameras, imaging software (Photoshop), presentation software (PowerPoint), Website, etc.

Answer 2

planning, build-up, implementation, and closeout.