Cautions in Using Consensus Processes
Cautions: Critical mistakes are often made in the initial decision
to use a consensus process, or in the way the agency initially
structures the process. Please keep these cautions in mind.
Agency time and resources
Consensus processes require time, resources and commitment
from the agency sponsoring the process. Agencies should not
convene a consensus process without careful consideration.
Sometimes agencies and stakeholders are better served when
the agency instead calls a meeting or series of meetings to
seek input. Agencies should take the time to assess which
process is most appropriate. (See
Internal Assessment)
Stakeholder time and resources
Consensus processes can require a significant commitment
of time and resources from stakeholders. Agencies should not
convene a consensus process without identifying the key stakeholders
and determining whether they are willing to participate and
have the resources to do so. ( See
External Assessment)
Facilitation may be necessary
Where the issues are few and agency/stakeholder relations
are good, a facilitator may not be necessary. If the issues
are complex, or if agency-stakeholder relationships or relationships
among stakeholders can be adversarial, a qualified facilitator
will be necessary. (See
Choosing a Facilitator)
Don’t forget to set ground rules
Once a consensus process is convened, groups sometimes jump
into the substance of discussions without taking the time
to discuss and agree on ground rules. This will almost always
cause problems later. (See
Ground rules section)
Statute
If the agency is undertaking a process to develop proposed
regulations, it must make sure to comply with the provisions
of 5 MRSA § 8051-B.
|
