The first stage of the problem-solving process is problem identification. Regular dialogue helps people to identify problems early on. Groups which practice dialogue also are better practiced at setting group priorities. The second stage of problem-solving is generating solutions and making a decision. Dialogue can lead to a clearer understanding of the problem.
Dialogue can also help participants to generate a broader set of possible solutions.
The final problem-solving stage is implementation. Groups who have practiced dialogue through the earlier stages will be more united behind the final decision, and more committed to it. The authors argue that dialogue helps to create community. Use of dialogue also helps participants as they move through the stages of community building. In the early stage of pseudo-community participants tend to deny their differences.