Collaborative Facilitation

One key aspect of this approach is that the facilitator does not have an agenda of his/her own, beyond that of supporting participants and the group itself as well as possible. Also, the facilitator works to create a dynamic where all of the different voices and perspectives within the group can emerge, be acknowledged and validated. And, perhaps most importantly, the facilitator (and each member) needs to trust the group's process, and the ability of participants to find answers, given focused attention and accurate recording.

In this type of meeting there is an important distinction between “content” and “process.” The collaborative facilitator does not attempt to direct the content or try to control the ideas under discussion but does play an active role in ensuring that the process is fair to all participants and everyone has an equal opportunity to be fully heard (ensuring that no one dominates the discussion or gets left out). This greatly increases the likelihood of participants achieving a shared understanding of issues, and shared agreement.

It is important to acknowledge that a group will experience periods of convergence and divergence on important issues. This is natural and part of the process of moving forward. True consensus and shared agreement cannot be manufactured. It must emerge from the group's own process. The key role of the facilitator is to be sensitive to the dynamics of the process and to assist the group in developing shared understanding. It is normal and to be expected that participants will at times feel overwhelmed by the divergence they are facing. Participants can be assured that pieces of the puzzle are being put into place and that the larger picture will emerge.

To summarize, the collaborative facilitator's main roles are to:

· Act as an "active listener," ensuring that each voice within the group is fully heard.

· Help create a group "mind map," by accurately recording all participants' contributions and highlighting points of shared agreement..

· Help create a suitable “container” -- opening and closing the meeting, acknowledging and validating the group’s process and progress.

Room Setup & Logistics

The preferred set-up for a collaborative process is to have the participants sit in a semi-circle facing the facilitator with four flip charts at the front of the room. This arrangement ensures equal opportunity for the participants to speak and be heard. It also helps the participants face the facilitator and the “issues” under discussion, rather than potentially facing-off opposite one another (as with a circle) or talking to the backs of heads (as with chairs in rows).

This way the facilitator can receive the energy, even in a heated discussion, and ensure that it contributes positively to the discussion. This is accomplished by recording everyone’s input onto one of four flip charts. Each sheet of paper is placed on the wall (with assistance) to form a complete record of the discussion and as a “group memory.”

Emerging Principles of Collaborative Discussion

We are beginning to witness some important emerging principles in collaborative discussions. I can only speak personally, yet at the same time hope that these principles resonate with others. Some readers may consider these to be naively optimistic, given the reality of negotiation and bargaining in the world today. Yet I've found that people are seeking ways to function more effectively and develop more authentic dialogue and rapport in their everyday lives. These principles not only describe what is possible, but what is actually emerging; personal conduct that we can all aspire to.

Participants in collaborative discussions often share:

* A deep respect for one another as individuals

* Care and compassion for the true essence within each of us

* Respect for the person apart from the ideas they bring forth

* The courage to speak individual truths in an effort to contribute to greater awareness and a higher purpose

* Humility in conduct, realizing that we can only speak from our own unique perspectives, while honouring the perspectives of others.

* A fundamental belief in human goodness and each person's will to do good.

* The sense of being one cell in a complex organism, with all the duties and rights of an individual as well as the concomitant responsibilities for the health of the greater whole.

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