Dialogue events
Increasingly dialogue is being used to describe a technique by which insights into the public’s attitudes and values are generated through discussions with experts to inform policy. Dialogue can be used as a research tool or in a more consultative mode. In either case we take the view that dialogue events generally need to start with an exploration of participants’ initial perspectives on a particular topic and what, if anything, they would like to know more about or discuss in greater detail. We source and brief people capable of providing this information and facilitate the sharing and discussion of this material.
Implicit in our approach to dialogue is an appreciation that different parties bring different sets of knowledge that are all useful in considering a specific issue. Subject experts may bring a detailed technical knowledge, whilst others can bring a broader perspective or analogies from other walks of life. When we run dialogue activities we make it clear that “experts” are there to help conversations not dominate them. They may be taking part to present a specific opinion or explain a course of action, but this will always be in the context of other options that will be offered by other “experts”.
A citizens’ jury or consensus conference are examples of dialogue events, but we tend not to offer off the shelf dialogue products. Each project is different, probably requiring different types of participants, who may be able to devote different amounts of time and will require more or less external stimulus depending on their familiarity with the topic.
Whenever possible we recommend that our clients should play at least some role in dialogue events. However insightful a report may be, however striking the quotes or vivid the images, being there is different. Taking part, or even just observing, gives an insight into the views and language of the other participants beyond that which can be conveyed by a written report. Clients have told us that the insight gained by being present not only helps them to better understand reports, but also to be more confident in defending and using the findings. Moreover, participants appreciate it. There is often an initial level of cynicism that dialogue activities are “window-dressing” or “tick-box exercises”. Meeting the people who will use the findings helps participants to feel that their views will have an influence.
It is important to remember that participants are likely to have become personally involved in the topic. In consultative mode, we would always expect to provide feedback on the response to their recommendations. When using dialogue as a research tool, we offer participants access to reports and where possible, ways of staying involved with the issue should they so wish.