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FACILITATION

There are times when members of an organization or representatives of a number of different organizations must come together to deliberate and reach agreements on the overall direction or specific aspects of a joint project. Since every participant usually comes with his or her own perspective and preferred outcome, it is sometimes desirable to use a “facilitator” from outside the group who has no vested interest in any particular outcome. The perceived impartiality of the facilitator will make it easier for the participants to relinquish control over the process and trust that they will be heard and treated fairly.

The role of the outside “facilitator” will be to help move the discussions along efficiently, and to ensure that: the process (and procedural ground rules) does not favor any one person or group; the problems being addressed are stated clearly; a wide range of options are surfaced and discussed; and, the final agreement on what actions are to be taken are understandable, realistic and can be implemented.

How can you arrange for IDRS’ facilitation services?

You can arrange for facilitation services by e-mailing or calling our offices and speaking to one of our staff members on the telephone. The staff member will:

(2) Give you immediate feedback on the availability of the IDRS staff, relevant staff backgrounds, the number of facilitators that may be needed, possible need for a recorder to keep track of participant input and agreements reached, etc.