Participatory processes is an umbrella term for both dialogue and deliberation methods. Deliberative processes are a subcategory of participatory processes.
A participatory process is a divergent method of shared inquiry, exchange, listening and reflecting. Dialogue enlarges possibilities and sometimes changes points of view. Dialogue is discovery-oriented and can remain open-ended, without having to come to a common conclusion. Participatory processes can include dialogue conversation cafes, world cafe, public meetings, distributed dialogue, fishbowl discussions and focus groups.
Deliberative processes involve weighing up options and making choices together, and seeks a decision. By the end of a deliberative process, participants should all be in agreement with the shared conclusion, where possible. Deliberative processes will also have dialogue before being able to come to a shared conclusion. Deliberative processes include citizens’ assemblies, citizens’ juries, legislative theatre, deliberative workshops, community conversations and long-term panels.
You can find out more about participatory and deliberative processes on our methods bank.