The main focus of deliberative engagement is always the discussions among participants. An effective deliberative process is one where:
- In every event held, the majority of time is allocated to discussion between participants. The views expressed in these discussions are carefully recorded.
- The exercise follows a logical path through learning and discussion, so that participants build on and use the information and knowledge they acquire as the process develops.
- Participants are given a variety of ways to express their views – both collectively, through the discussions, and individually through other methods, such as voting, post-it notes, postcards or flip charts.
- the process allows time for plenary feedback and summing up, so that participants can validate points that are being interpreted as the main points.
- Specialists, decision-makers and policy-makers are briefed so that they clearly understand that their role is to stimulate and support discussions among the participants, not to lead or direct them.