Knowledge Base

What are the quality standards for participatory and deliberative processes?

Participatory processes enable people to play an active role in decisions that affect their lives. Deliberative processes are a type of participatory process that allow participants to consider and discuss relevant information from multiple perspectives before coming to a common conclusion. 

The standards below are for designing and delivering high quality participatory and deliberative processes. Following these standards will ensure that your process:

  • Maintains independence and integrity
  • Can be held up against scrutiny
  • Delivers better outcomes, ultimately leading to better policy making

If you have decided to deliver or commission a participatory or deliberative process, you can use this resource to ensure your process aligns with standards.

  • 1. Clear purpose

    The process makes a difference and the decision has not already been made.The process takes place at the right point in the policy making or decision…

  • 2. Sufficient time and resource

    There is sufficient time in the project set up to build important relationships with interested parties and decision makers.The time and resources…

  • 4. Inclusive

    Participants are paid for all reasonable expenses and their time, at minimum at real living wage per hour of their time.The accessibility…

  • 5. Independent

    The agenda setting, design and inputs of a process ensures balance and impartiality.The process is designed and facilitated by impartial and trained…

  • 6. Transparent and accountable

    The recruitment approach, speaker lists, agendas, learning materials and advisory group membership (if applicable) are openly published.The process’s…

  • 7. Balanced inputs

    Participants hear balanced, accurate and comprehensive information and evidence, proportionate to the question or purpose.If using multiple speakers…

  • 8. Structured dialogue

    Participants are supported through a facilitated process to consider and weigh up different perspectives and discuss with other participants.The…

  • 9. Collective conclusions

    Participants consider key trade-offs and reach collective conclusions and/or recommendations.The report outlines the rationale behind the conclusions…

  • 10. Close the feedback loop

    Participants and the wider public are given a summary of conclusions and/or recommendations as they have been presented to the decision makers.The…