Deliberative' opinion polls are used to compare a group of citizens reactions before and after they have had an opportunity to discuss the issue at hand. We are only interested in interactive initiatives and not in the use of computer technologies simply to provide information on services or facilities. These allow citizens to vote on policy-specific options, as in the Strathclyde vote on the reorganisation of water services. Panels focus on specific service or policy issues, or on wider strategy. The panel is made up of a statistically representative sample of citizens whose views are sought several times a year.
Citizens juries receive evidence from expert witnesses and cross-questioning can occur.
The process may last up to four days, at the end of which a report is drawn up setting out the views of the jury, including any differences in opinion. Juries views are intended to inform councillors decision-making. One-off focus groups are similar to citizens juries in that they bring together citizens to discuss a specific issue. Focus groups need not be representative of the general population, perhaps involving a particular citizen group only. Discussions may focus on the specific needs of that group, on the quality of a particular service, or on ideas for broader policy or strategy.